RESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: The popularity of dental implants is continuously increasing. Displacement of implants into the maxillary sinus is a well-documented complication following this treatment. AIMS: To characterize patients treated in our institution for uncontrolled penetration of dental implants into the maxillary sinus, and highlight the importance of the multidisciplinary approach in treating these cases. METHODS: The charts of all patients treated in 2018 within the Sinuses and Dental Clinic at the Meir Medical Center were reviewed. Data concerning age, gender, timing and the type of treatment performed was retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS: Fifteen patients were included in the study. Ten implants were found in the left sinus and five in the right side. Eight implants were seen in the lower medial alveolar recess. None of the patients presented with an oro-antral fistulae. Ten patients were treated endoscopically - eight through a nasal approach, and two through the mouth. All patients healed uneventfully. CONCLUSIONS: Different approaches can be used to remove implants from the maxillary sinus. DISCUSSION: Most patients in this study were referred adjacent to the displacement of the dental implant. The medial alveolar recess is the most common area of implant displacement. While either a nasal or oral approach can be used to retrieve the implant in the absence of sinus disease, a nasal approach should be preferred in the presence of such pathology. The collaboration between the otorhinologist and the maxillofacial surgeon, enables both the dental and rhinosinus considerations to be considered. This cooperation allows practitioners to design better treatment plans for patients with dental implants involving the sinuses.