Assessing the impact of the size of a maxillary sinus graft and its contact with surrounding sinus walls on bone regeneration

When a patient needs dental implants in the upper jaw but lacks enough bone height beneath the sinus cavity, a procedure called sinus augmentation is performed — essentially adding bone graft material to the floor of the sinus to create enough depth for implant placement. How much new bone grows into this graft depends on several factors, but researchers have not yet explored whether the shape and size of the graft area itself — specifically the ratio of the bony wall contact surface to the graft volume — affects how well bone regenerates. This study is collecting detailed pre- and post-surgical data on patients undergoing sinus augmentation at the University of Queensland. Using CT scans and clinical measurements, researchers will map the geometry of the graft and analyse how it correlates with the amount of new bone formed at follow-up biopsy. You may be eligible if you are 18 or older, are in good general health, have an edentulous (toothless) upper jaw with insufficient bone height for implants, and have adequate plaque control and stable periodontal (gum) health. Heavy smokers, pregnant individuals, and people on medications that interfere with bone formation are not eligible. This study could refine how surgeons plan sinus grafting procedures, potentially leading to better implant outcomes.