Report of a human autopsy case in maxillary sinuses augmented using a synthetic bone substitute: Micro-computed tomographic and histologic observations

Objective: This study of a human autopsy case aimed to characterize the histologic and micro-computed tomographic results of maxillary sinus augmentation using a synthetic bone substitute and simultaneous implant placement at 6 years. Material and methods: This report is based on the whole-body donation of a 62-year-old male patient who died due to bladder cancer. Implants had been placed in conjunction with sinus augmentation using a mixture of biphasic calcium phosphate and autogenous bone into both maxillary sinuses 6 years prior to the body donation. The maxillary sinus areas containing implants were gently removed from the cadaver and scanned using high-resolution micro-computed tomography. Samples were sectioned, prepared for undecalcified histologic slides and stained with haematoxylin-eosin. Results: The augmented volume was observed up to the apex of the implants, which were successfully osseointegrated. Cross-sectional micro-computed tomographic views revealed that the bone-substitute particles were embedded in radiopaque-mineralized tissues showing a trabecular pattern around the implants. The histologic analysis revealed mature lamellar bone surrounding the remaining bone-substitute particles as well as well-organized bone marrow spaces in the augment bone area and around the dental implants. Conclusion: This human autopsy study histologically confirmed the presence of successful bone formation and long-term volume stability after sinus augmentation using biphasic calcium phosphate and simultaneous implant placement.