This group used piezoelectric osteotomy (exposure) to prepare the lateral window acceding maxillary sinus

This group used round bur (control) to prepare the lateral window acceding maxillary sinus

The piezoelectric technique, another window preparation procedure that does not use a round bur, was first introduced to LSFE in 2001 for its high accuracy of osteotomy and low rate of membrane perforation. Later studies demonstrated that the operation time, postoperative reactions, and perforation rate of this procedure are considered to be acceptable compared with rotary bur. Moreover, the piezoelectric technique allows for the lateral bone window to be cut and preserved relatively completely.

The distance (mm) from the implant apex to the most apical position of the graft material along the longitudinal axis of the implant

The distance (mm) from the level of the sinus floor (middle of the buccal level and palatal level) to the level of the most apical position of the graft material along the longitudinal axis of the implant

The vertical distance (mm) from the api- cal margin of the implant shoulder on the palatal side straight up to the position of the most apical position of the graft material

The vertical distance (mm) from the api- cal margin of the implant shoulder on the buccal side straight up to the position of the most apical position of the graft material

The volume of the endo-sinus reconstructed graft materials

Sinus perforation was determined by direct visualization and the Valsalva maneuver during the surgery process.

Early implant loss was defined as an implant show- ing clinical mobility prior to the placement of the abutment