A novel approach to the antral sinus bone graft technique: the use of a prototype cutting guide for precise outlining of the lateral wall. A case report.

The antral sinus bone graft has become one of the most predictable and commonly used surgical procedures to augment bone in the posterior maxilla and thereby accommodate implant placement. Positioning the lateral wall during this technique has traditionally been an intuitive process, whereby the surgeon relies on mental navigation to achieve proper identification. The purpose of this article is to introduce a prototype cutting guide that is developed through the use of computerized tomographic imaging, computer software, and the stereolithographic process to precisely position the lateral wall and facilitate Schneiderian membrane elevation. This prototype cutting guide marks the beginning of applications for "guided bone grafting" and associated techniques that focus on enhanced precision and accuracy in bone regeneration surgery.