METHODS:
63 ENT specialists responded to mailed questionnaire that include various sinus pathology scenarios. Their responses were statistically evaluated and analyzed.
RESULTS:
58% recommend routine CT Scan prior to sinus-lift surgery.
Patient symptoms that indicate referral to ENT prior to sinus grafting include nose problems and sinus issues.
CT- scan findings that suggested a referral in the opinion of a majority of ENT specialists :
1) Occluded sinus with septum.
2) Inflammation at the base of the sinus only
3) Generalized thickened sinus membrane
4) Oro-antral fistula
5) Thickened sinus membrane in association with perio or endo involved teeth.
6 ) Near completely occluded sinus
Other concerns included past history of sinus surgery, chronic sinusitis, ostium stenosis, nasal obstruction and oro-antral fistula
CONCLUSIONS:
A CT Scan prior to sinus-lift surgery was recommended by 58.7% of ENT specialists. Their greatest concerns were prior sinus surgery, severe sinus inflammation, nasal/sinus obstruction and oro-antral fistula.
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE REFER TO:
New York State Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists view on pre-sinus lift referral.
Cote MT, Segelnick SL, Rastogi A, Schoor R
Journal of Periodontology Feb 2011, Vol. 82, No.2, Pages 227- 233. E-publication: 2010, September 1
