Prevalence of maxillary sinus pathology in patients considered for sinus augmentation procedures for dental implants.

PURPOSE: To determine the prevalence of maxillary sinus pathology in patients presenting for implant rehabilitation involving sinus augmentation procedures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three-dimensional images of 275 patients were evaluated. Age and gender were recorded to see if they had any relationship to the prevalence of pathology. Scans were classified into 1 of the 5 categories based on the type of sinus pathology detected: healthy, mucosal thickening > 5mm, polypoidal mucosal thickening, partial opacification and/or air fluid level, and complete opacification.

RESULTS: Overall, 54.9% scans were classified as healthy, and 45.1% scans were classified as exhibiting sinus pathology. Men were more likely to exhibit pathology compared with females (P < 0.01). However, age did not seem to have any relation on the prevalence of sinus pathology. Of the patients who presented with evidence of sinus pathology, 56.5% had mucosal thickening (≥ 5 mm), 28.2% with polypoidal thickening, 8.9% partial opacification and/or air/fluid level, and 6.5% complete opacification.

CONCLUSIONS: It is proposed that, based on the findings of this study, 45.1% patients would require further consultation before proceeding with maxillary sinus augmentation surgery.