Abstract: Objective To study and discuss the complications that occurred during 122 consecutive maxillary sinus augmentations via the lateral window approach and to propose solutions to manage these complications. Methods This study evaluated 69 men and 53 women requiring 122 consecutive sinus elevation procedures between August 2010 and July 2013. All had already completed prosthodontics. Pretreatment residual bone heights were recorded. The incidences of any intraoperative or postoperative sinus complications such as excessive bleeding,membrane perforation,infection,wound dehiscence,acute sinusitis,loss of bone grafts were recorded and implant survival proportion was calculated. Results 8 intraoperative membrane perforations were noted. 3 patients had few nosebleed the night after surgery.1 case of acute sinusitis and suppuration was noted 2 weeks after operation while wound dehiscence was observed in 3 cases 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. Partial loss of the bone grafts was identified in 6 of the patients and 6 implants became loose or fell off within 6 months after surgery. Conclusions Sinus floor elevation utilizing the lateral window approach may result in some complications,including membrane tear,infection,wound dehiscence,loss of grafts,and implant failure. In order to prevent and manage these complications,clinicians may examine carefully before surgery,pay more attention to the operation,repair the perforated membrane,advisably increase the antibiotic dose,and suture the dehisced wound while utilizing gargle and systemic antibiotic treatment and so on.

Key words: complications, lateral window, sinus augmentation, sinus floor, sinus membrane.