A Clinical Approach for the Removal of a Large Antral Pseudocyst with Simultaneous Maxillary Sinus Augmentation: A Case Series

Abstract

For a large benign lesion within the maxillary sinus, such as an antral pseudocyst, maxillary sinus floor augmentation is more commonly performed using a two-stage approach. This involves first removing the lesion, and then, re-entry following several months of healing. In this case series, we described the “one-bony-window” approach, which is a technical surgical modification of the previous one-stage approach, for simultaneous cyst removal and maxillary sinus floor augmentation. Four patients with large maxillary antral pseudocysts were included. The “one-bony-window” approach involves the preparation of a large window opening of approximately 15 mm × 20 mm at the lateral wall. A mesiodistally extended intentional perforation was made in the upper part of the exposed membrane to enhance the access for instrumentation. The antral pseudocyst was removed in its entirety without being deformed to prevent rupture or leakage of the cystic contents. Subsequent detachment and elevation of the Schneiderian membrane at the sinus floor significantly reduced the perforation site, and bone grafting with implant placement was performed simultaneously. This alleviated the need to surgically repair the perforation. The lateral opening was either uncovered or repositioned using bony window lids. Healing abutments were connected after six months, and the final prosthesis was placed after two months. At the 1-year follow-up, the antral pseudocysts had resolved with no specific recurrence, and the stability of the augmented sinus was maintained with excellent implant survival. Within the limitations of our findings, the “one-bony-window” technique can be suggested for the simultaneous removal of large antral pseudocysts and maxillary sinus floor augmentation with favorable clinical outcomes.