Graftless transcrestal sinus lift with self-tapping implants for the upper back jaw

Transcrestal Graftless Schneiderian Membrane Elevation by Self-tapping Dental Implant

This study will try a minimally invasive graftless transcrestal sinus lift with immediate implant placement for adults missing upper back teeth who have limited bone height.

Quick facts

• Phase: NA
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 20 (estimated)
• Ages: 18 Years to 80 Years
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: Sana'a University (other)
• Locations: 1 site (Sanaa, Sanaa Governorate)
• Trial ID: NCT07424742 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This prospective clinical study uses a transcrestal approach to gently lift (tent) the Schneiderian membrane and place self-tapping dental implants at the same time without adding graft material, relying on blood clot formation and natural bone regrowth beneath the membrane. Clinical and radiographic measurements will be taken before surgery, immediately after, and at six months to document new bone formation, implant stability, and osseointegration. The protocol tracks implant survival and complications over time to determine the safety and reliability of the technique in the posterior maxilla. The procedure is performed at a single center with standardized surgical and follow-up assessments.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adults aged 18–80 with an edentulous posterior maxilla, about 4–6 mm of remaining bone height, good general health (ASA I–II), and willingness to attend follow-up visits are ideal candidates.

Not a fit: Patients with severe systemic disease (ASA III+), uncontrolled diabetes, active sinus disease, prior head/neck radiotherapy, heavy smoking, pregnancy, untreated periodontal disease, or very low residual bone (<4 mm) are unlikely to benefit.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could allow implants in the upper back jaw without bone grafts, reducing surgical complexity, costs, and recovery time.

How similar studies have performed: Previous clinical reports of graftless sinus elevation using membrane tenting and blood clot have shown promising bone formation and implant survival in selected patients, though results vary and longer-term data remain limited.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adults aged 18-80 years.
2. Patients with edentulous posterior maxilla.
3. Residual bone height approximately 4-6 mm.
4. Indicated for transcrestal sinus membrane elevation.
5. Good general health (ASA I or II).
6. Ability to provide written informed consent.
7. Willingness to attend follow-up visits.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Severe systemic diseases (ASA III or above).
2. Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
3. Active sinus pathology.
4. History of radiotherapy in the head and neck region.
5. Heavy smokers (\>10 cigarettes/day).
6. Pregnancy or lactation.
7. Untreated periodontal disease.

7\. Poor oral hygiene.

Where this trial is running

Sanaa, Sanaa Governorate

• Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Sana'a University — Sanaa, Sanaa Governorate, Yemen (RECRUITING)

Conditions: Edentulous Posterior Maxilla, Maxillary Sinus Pneumatization, Alveolar Bone Atrophy, Transcrestal Sinus Lift, Graftless Sinus Elevation, Schneiderian Membrane, Dental Implant, Posterior Maxilla