BACKGROUND:There are different methods to evaluate bone grafts in the maxillary sinus. Panoramic radiography is the most common one, even though assessment could be difficult. Occasionaly computerized tomography (CT)is another option but cost and radiation in excess should be considered. Our objective is to compare these two imaging methods. METHODS: Both panoramic radiogrphy and CT scan methods were used on 25 procedures in 14 patients on post-operative sinus lift with autogenous bone graft from the iliac crest. Two radiologists evaluated the quantity of the newly formed bone and the quality of the exam for each patient, through different imaging groups. RESULTS: The quantitative bone evaluation between the two types of exam showed a statistically significant difference (Student t-test=0,05) In some cases the difference was up to 14,8 mm between exams on the same patient, having an error of more than 3mm in 16 procedures (64%). CONCLUSIONS: It can be concluded that the quality of the image on the computerized tomography is superior and it is the most reliable method to determine the area of bone augmentation of the maxillary sinus after an antroplasty.
Iliac crest; Maxillary sinus; Autologus graft; Image
