Staged sinus augmentation using a crestal core elevation procedure and modified osteotomes to minimize membrane perforation.

Staged sinus floor elevation allows predictable implant placement in the severely deficient posterior maxilla. An alternative to the most commonly used lateral window approach involves the apical displacement of crestal core(s) using osteotomes and a composite graft. Crestal core elevation (CCE) incorporates specially designed osteotomes to minimize the incidence of membrane perforation and placement of a barrier membrane over the core osteotomy. This article presents the technique and instrumentation, as well as documentation of 43 patients demonstrating the efficacy of this modality.