Comparing two techniques for lateral sinus lift in patients with severe maxillary atrophy

"Tunnel" Flap vs Trapezoidal Flap for Lateral Sinus Lift: A Prospective Randomized Study

Not applicable Interventional Studio Dentistico Associato Sivolella · NCT06105489

This study is testing which of two surgical techniques for lifting the sinus works better for people with severe bone loss in their upper jaw who need dental implants.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment36 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorStudio Dentistico Associato Sivolella Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy, radiation
Locations1 site (Padova)
Trial IDNCT06105489 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of the tunnel flap technique versus the trapezoidal flap technique for performing lateral sinus lifts in patients with severe atrophy of the edentulous maxilla. The study focuses on post-operative symptoms, complication rates, and the effectiveness of bone grafting associated with each technique. Participants will undergo the lateral sinus lift procedure and will be monitored through follow-up care, including diary entries to track their recovery and any issues that arise. The goal is to determine which technique offers better outcomes for patients needing dental implants.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include edentulous or partially edentulous patients with severe alveolar atrophy in the maxillary premolar or molar areas.

Not a fit: Patients with severe illnesses, uncontrolled diabetes, or those undergoing certain therapies like chemotherapy may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical outcomes and reduced complications for patients undergoing lateral sinus lifts.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited data on the tunnel flap technique specifically, similar studies have shown promising results for alternative flap techniques in sinus lift procedures.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* edentulous or partly edentulous patients with a unilateral loss of teeth in the maxillary premolar or molar areas
* severe alveolar atrophy and a residual severe alveolar ridge height up to 3 mm

Exclusion Criteria:

* severe illness
* head and neck radiation therapy
* chemotherapy
* antiresorptive therapy
* uncontrolled diabetes
* uncontrolled periodontal disease
* smoking \>10 cigarettes per day
* facial or neck inflammatory or oncologic diseases
* obliteration of sinus ostium and osteomeatal complex

Where this trial is running

Padova

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Severe Atrophy of the Edentulous MaxillaLateral sinus liftTunnel techniqueDental ImplantPatient Reported Outcome MeasuresBone RegenerationFlap DesignHistology
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.