Reconstruction of an atrophic maxilla: comparison of two methods

We have evaluated the survival of dental implants in extremely atrophic edentulous maxillas after autogenous bone grafting. We compared two techniques: the Le Fort I down-grafting procedure and conventional raising of the sinus floor with onlay bone grafting.

Twenty-seven consecutive patients had their atrophic maxillas reconstructed, 10 of whom were treated with a Le Fort I osteotomy with down-grafting and interpositioning of bone, and 17 by raising the sinus floor and onlay grafts. All implants were placed 5-6 months after grafting. There was no difference in the survival of implants between the two groups. The choice of grafting technique will therefore be based primarily on the interarch relations and the need for soft tissue support.