Importance of bone graft quality for implant integration after maxillary sinus reconstruction

Objective. The aim of this study was to determine whether bone quality, as assessed by osteometry and histologic parameters, can be used to predict implant integration in conjunction with maxillary sinus reconstruction. Study design. Twelve patients with severely atrophied maxillary alveolar processes were treated through use of a two-stage surgical reconstructive strategy with implant placement 4 months after bone grafting. Bone biopsy specimens taken from the iliac crest peroperatively and from the sinus inlay sites 1, 2, 4, 6, or 12 months postoperatively were analyzed by light microscopy and osteomorphometry. Bone mineral content was measured by osteometry. Results. Osteometric and osteomorphometric data (trabecular bone volume [%], assessment of chromatin staining, and an osteocyte index) registered for the biopsy specimens were not statistically correlated with implant failure. Conclusions. Prognostic evaluation of implant survival is difficult. The tested methods did not contribute to the improvement of guidelines for the clinical handling of these patients.