Mechanical properties of the Schneiderian membrane in vitro

Perforation of the Schneiderian membrane (maxillary sinus mucosa) is a common complication of maxillary sinus graft procedures. Membrane perforation increases the chance of postoperative sinusitis and endangers graft as well as implant survival. The aim of the present study was to explore the mechanical properties of the Schneiderian membrane.Three test methods were performed on sinus specimen of 20 fresh human cadavers: one- and two-dimensional membrane elongation as far as perforation, as well as membrane detachment from the adherent bone.Perforation of the Schneiderian membrane (mean thickness: 90 mum) occurred at a mean tension of 7.3 N/mm(2). The membrane could be stretched to 132.6% of its original size in one-dimensional elongation, and to 124.7% in two-dimensional elongation. Thicker membranes demonstrated significantly higher load limits (P<0.001). The mean modulus of elasticity accounted 0.058 GPa, the mean adhesion force between sinus membrane and bone surface was 0.05 N/mm.Respecting the mechanical properties of the Schneiderian membrane may help reducing the complication rates and thus patient morbidity in minimally invasive maxillary sinus floor elevation.