To investigate clinical outcomes of transcrestal maxillary sinus floor elevation performed with an injectable xenograft in gel form, analyzing variables possibly influencing the results. Patients needing unilateral sinus floor elevation (residual crestal height <5 mm) for the placement of a single implant were enrolled. Xenograft in gel form was injected through a crestal antrostomy in order to elevate sinus membrane and fill the sub-antral space. Simultaneous implant placement was performed when adequate primary stability was achievable. Graft height was measured immediately after surgery (T0) and after six months of healing (T1). Univariate and multivariate regression models were built to assess associations between clinical variables with implant survival and graft height at T1.

Purpose: To investigate clinical outcomes of transcrestal maxillary sinus floor elevation performed with an injectable xenograft in gel form, analyzing variables possibly influencing the results. Methods: Patients needing unilateral sinus floor elevation (residual crestal height <5 mm) for the placement of a single implant were enrolled. Xenograft in gel form was injected through a crestal antrostomy in order to elevate sinus membrane and fill the sub-antral space. Simultaneous implant placement was performed when adequate primary stability was achievable. Graft height was measured immediately after surgery (T0) and after six months of healing (T1). Univariate and multivariate regression models were built to assess associations between clinical variables with implant survival and graft height at T1.

Inclusion Criteria:

• residual bone crest height <5 mm and width ≥6 mm in the planned implant site;
• healed bone crest (at least 6 months elapsed from tooth loss/extraction);
• age >18 years;
• written informed consent given

Exclusion Criteria:

absolute medical contraindications to implant surgery;

• uncontrolled diabetes (HBA1c > 7.5%);
• treated or under treatment with antiresorptives;
• irradiated in the head and neck area in the last five years;
• pregnant or breastfeeding;
• substance abusers;
• psychiatric problems or unrealistic expectations;
• patient not fully able to comply with the study protocol.
• large sinus cavity (distance >12 mm between buccal and palatal walls at 10-mm level, comprising the residual alveolar crest);
• maxillary sinus conditions contraindicating sinus floor elevation;
• poor oral hygiene and motivation (Full Mouth Plaque Score >20% and or Full Mouth Bleeding Score >10%)

Any partially edentulous patient needing unilateral sinus floor elevation for the placement of one dental implant supporting a single crown was eligible for entering this study

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