A NEW ANIMAL-MODEL FOR MAXILLARY SINUS FLOOR AUGMENTATION - EVALUATION PARAMETERS

This study describes a novel animal model of the maxillary sinus floor augmentation procedure used to assess bone formation during 12 weeks in response to a recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP -2)/absorbable collagen sponge (ACS) sinus implant. A buffer-ACS impla nt was used as a control. Animal response was monitored using computer ized tomography and physical, hematologic, gross pathologic, and histo logic evaluations. The rhBMP-2/ACS implants maintained a relatively co nstant size postsurgery and showed a time-dependent increase in minera lization. The buffer/ACS control implants failed to mineralize and wer e resorbed by 4 weeks. The model served effectively and without compli cation. Results indicate rhBMP-2/ACS implants deserve consideration as alternatives to traditional grafting procedures.