The Palatal Approach for Direct Maxillary Sinus Floor Elevation: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION: The traditional techniques of maxillary sinus floor elevation via a direct or indirect approach are suitable for the majority of cases. However, in cases of unfavorable anatomy and/or a thick lateral bony wall, we propose here a new approach for sinus floor elevation. CASE PRESENTATION: Forty-two-year-old female presents for sinus floor elevation after a failed attempt due to anatomical limitations and intraoperative complications. During the second surgical procedure, the access to the sinus membrane was performed from the palatal side due to thickness of the buccal wall ranging from 6 to 9 mm and the presence of septa. The sinus augmentation was successful, allowing for future implant placement. CONCLUSION: In selected cases, when the anatomy of the maxillary sinus poses limitations and the lateral wall thickness requires significant bone removal, the palatal approach is a valid alternative to the traditional sinus augmentation techniques.