[Long-term behavior of aluminumoxide ceramic implantations in the region of pneumatized cavities in animal experiments].

After bilateral resection of the facial wall of the maxillary sinus of five Göttingen minipigs and coverage of the defect with perforated Al2O3 ceramic material, the initial response to the implant was examined clinically and histomorphologically for periods of up to eight months. Except for a wound infection in the initial stages of healing in the case of one animal, no complications were observed after the operation. Three months after the operation, the implants were fixed in the connective tissue. After the fourth month, newly formed compact bone had developed and stabilized in the region of the attachment. The basically uncovered surface of the implant, which was turned toward the maxillary sinus, was covered with a non-irritating respiratory mucous membrane. No immunologic responses were observed. Bio-inert reaction, stable tissue-bony anchorage, and coverage with functioning mucous membrane justify the insertion of Al2O3 ceramic implants to cover defects in pneumatized cavities.