Evaluation of a modified method for maxillary sinus surgery - Reimplantation of the anterior bony wall of the maxillary sinus

Objective: After radical surgery to the maxillary sinus using the Caldwell-Luc method, scar tissue invades the maxillary sinus from the bone defect and may cause complications. To prevent this invasion of scar tissue, it is proposed that the bone defect be closed by free reimplantation of the bone of the anterior wall. Patients and Methods: From 1997 to 1999, fifty three patients with odontogenic maxillary sinusitis ranging in age from 20 to 73 years underwent reimplantation of the anterior bony wall to close the bone defect. Closure of the post-surgical maxillary sinus with reimplantation of the anterior bony wall was clinically evaluated using computed tomography. Results: Using this surgical method, the reimplanted bone remained intact and scar tissue did not invade the maxillary sinus. The drainage duct into the lower nasal cavity appeared to remain patent. Conclusion: Closing the bone defect in the anterior wall prevented the invasion of scar tissue and other complications and improved healing.