Short-term evaluation of bioactive glass using the modified osteotome sinus elevation technique.

PURPOSE: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the dimensional changes of bioactive glass (BG) that occur after sinus bone grafting using a modified osteotome technique and simultaneous implant placement. METHODS: Seventy-six subjects received 87 implants with a modified osteotome sinus elevation technique using BG bone graft and simultaneous implant placement. The radiographs taken at the time of implant placement and at the time of implant uncovery were retrospectively evaluated to assess the degree of BG dimensional changes. RESULTS: Thirty-six subjects with 44 implants were included in the study. A 24.6% significant reduction (P < 0.0001) of the apical height of the BG from the apex of the implant occurred during the 6-month healing period. There was no significant correlation between the extent of sinus floor elevation, healing time, and the vertical distance the implant penetrated into the sinus with the degree of the dimensional changes of the bone graft. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that BG had a dimensional change reduction of 24.6% after 6 months of healing time.