Maxillary sinus augmentation in the presence of antral pseudocyst

Abstract Objectives: To present patients with sinus augmentation in the presence of an antral pseudocyst, the surgical procedure, complications and outcome. Methods: From 2002 to 2005, 109 patients were scheduled for one- or two-stage maxillary sinus floor augmentation (n=129) due to inadequate alveolar bone height for implant placement. Radiographically, a significant antral pseudocyst was shown. Results: In 8 (7.3%) patients, an antral pseudocyst was diagnosed, and in 2 a history of inactive sinusitis was found pre-operatively. A faint dome-shaped radiopacity was found at the lower border of the maxillary sinus. Average lesion size was 5.09 cm2. All implants functioned well at follow-up (mean 20 months). Conclusion: A pseudocyst of the maxillary sinus is not a contra-indication for sinus augmentation. The low frequency of sinus membrane perforation and post-surgery sinusitis make the operation safe. In large lesions and in cases with an unclear diagnosis, further evaluation is needed before sinus augmentation.