CBCT for Diagnostics, Treatment Planning and Monitoring of Sinus Floor Elevation Procedures

Abstract

Sinus floor elevation (SFE) is a standard surgical technique used to compensate for alveolar bone resorption in the posterior maxilla. Such a surgical procedure requires radiographic imaging pre- and postoperatively for diagnosis, treatment planning, and outcome assessment. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) has become a well-established imaging modality in the dentomaxillofacial region. The following narrative review is aimed to provide clinicians with an overview of the role of three-dimensional (3D) CBCT imaging for diagnostics, treatment planning, and postoperative monitoring of SFE procedures. CBCT imaging prior to SFE provides surgeons with a more detailed view of the surgical site, allows for the detection of potential pathologies three-dimensionally, and helps to virtually plan the procedure more precisely while reducing patient morbidity. In addition, it serves as a useful follow-up tool for assessing sinus and bone graft changes. Meanwhile, using CBCT imaging has to be standardized and justified based on the recognized diagnostic imaging guidelines, taking into account both the technical and clinical considerations. Future studies are recommended to incorporate artificial intelligence-based solutions for automating and standardizing the diagnostic and decision-making process in the context of SFE procedures to further improve the standards of patient care.

Autologous leucocyte and platelet rich in fibrin (L-PRF) – is it a competitive solution for bone augmentation in maxillary sinus lift? A 6-month radiological comparison between xenografts and L-PRF

“…In the present research, we obtained 6 months postoperative volumes corresponding to the quantity of xenograft material used for recontouring the lack of native bone. We, therefore, highlight the utility of performing CBCT evaluations of the grafted sites to properly evaluate the stability of the results, as sustained in most recent studies [ 38 ] and to exclude any pathology that might affect the outcome [ 39 ].…”

Radiological Study on the Evolution of the Biomaterial’s Image (Shape, Density, Vertical Dimensions) after the Lateral Sinus Lift

“…The image of the upper limit of the biomaterial was assessed two-dimensionally in the panoramic radiograph, as a mesio-distal aspect. Although the CBCT produces a more accurate three-dimensional image, its use is not justified without the suspicion of a pathology due to the higher radiation dose [18,19]. Panoramic radiography is necessary anyway before the insertion of the implants, after the osseointegration period and several years after the end of the treatment at a routine check-up.…”

An overview of maxillary sinus elevation: Anatomically weak structures, complications, and managements

“…Transalveolar technique for sinus floor elevation requires sufficient bone mass, otherwise it can increase the probability of mucosal perforation. It is recommended that the least bone mass is 5mm below the sinus floor [1]. The World Dental Federation (FDI) has suggested that the recommended bone mass for transalveolar technique is at least 6mm.…”