Association Between Sinus Membrane Thickness and Membrane Perforation in Lateral Window Sinus Augmentation: A Retrospective Study

Background: Association between Schneiderian membrane thickness and membrane perforation is examined in lateral window sinus augmentation. Methods: This retrospective study reviewed records of 551 patients who underwent lateral sinus augmentation at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, from June 1, 2006 to May 31, 2015. Preoperative cone‐beam computed tomography images were analyzed to evaluate possible association among membrane thickness, residual bone height, and membrane perforation. Data were evaluated using Mann–Whitney U test at P <0.05. Results: Total 167 patients (95 males and 72 females) met the eligibility criteria and were included in the study. Among them, 47 patients had Schneiderian membrane perforation (perforation group). Mean membrane thickness was 0.84 ± 0.67 mm in the perforation group and 2.65 ± 4.02 mm in the non‐perforation group. There was a statistically significant difference in membrane thickness between groups ( P <0.001). Mean residual ridge thickness was 2.78 ± 1.37 mm in the perforation group and 4.21 ± 2.09 mm in the non‐perforation group. There was a statistically significant difference in residual alveolar bone height ( P <0.001). Conclusions: Patients who experienced membrane perforation had a thinner membrane compared with patients without membrane perforation. Schneiderian membrane perforation was associated with decreased residual bone height.