Maxillary sinus augmentation in the presence of antral pseudocyst: a clinical approach

Objective: The objective of this study is to present patients with sinus augmentation in the presence of an antral pseudocyst and the surgical procedure, complications, and outcome. Study design: From 2002 to 2005, 109 patients were scheduled for 1- or 2-stage maxillary sinus floor augmentation (n = 129) because of 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 preoperatively. 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 contraindication for sinus augmentation. The low frequency of sinus membrane perforation and postsurgery sinusitis make the operation safe. In large lesions and in cases with an unclear diagnosis, further evaluation is needed before sinus augmentation.