1996 Volume 9 Issue 2 Pages 328-335
The panoramic radiograms and x-ray computed tomographic (CT) images of fifteen sinus life patients were studied. The imaging examinations were performed before sinus life operation and during the follow-up stage. The period from the operation to the follow-up examination was varied from a half year to three years.
The statuses of the maxillary sinus mucosa, graft materials and endosseous implants were evaluated. The volume of the maxillary sinus cavity was measured using the three-dimensional reconstructed imaging technique. The volumes of the resorbable and unresorbable graft materials and/or newly formed bone were also calculated.
No significant change in the maxillary sinus mucosa was shown by comparison of pre- and postoperative CT images. Eleven percent of the implant apex in the panoramic radiography and 19% there of in the CT images were found to be exposed to the sinus cavity. The three-dimensional study suggested that the graft materials and/or newly-formed bone occupied 4-18% of the maxillary sinus cavity. The patients having a longer term of prognosis showed a lower occupying rate than the patients soon after sinus lift operation.
