Volume stability of the augmented sinus using a collagenated bovine bone mineral grafted in case of a perforated Schneiderian membrane: An experimental study in rabbits

Objectives: To determine the volume stability of a sinus augmented with a collagenated bovine bone mineral (CBBM) in case of an intact or perforated Schneiderian membrane (SM). Materials and Methods: A bilateral sinus augmentation procedure was performed in eight rabbits. The SM was intentionally perforated in one side (SMP group), while it remained intact in contra-lateral side (control group) and the same amount of CBBM was then grafted. At 12 weeks, the animals were euthanized for radiographic and histomorphometric analyses. Results: The augmented volume did not differ significantly between the two groups: 262.2 ± 32.1 mm³ in SMP group and 261.9 ± 48.5 mm³ in the control group (p =.959). There was no significant difference in the total augmented area: 24.7 ± 5.2 mm² in SMP group and 23.2 ± 2.9 mm² in the control group (p =.773). The areas of newly formed bone also did not differ significantly between the two groups, but was significantly lower at the centre of the augmented region than in the region of the surgical window in both groups (p <.05). Conclusion: A perforation of the SM in a rabbit model does neither impact the augmented volume nor new bone formation following grafting of the sinus with a CBBM.