Abstract: Objective To explore the clinical effect of bone blocks harvested from the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus on horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation using the tenting technique. Methods This study reviewed patients with dental defects who underwent horizontal tenting technique in the maxillary posterior region using bone blocks harvested from the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus at the Stomatology Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine from November 2018 to March 2023. The width of the alveolar ridge in the grafted area was compared using cone beam computer tomography (CBCT) images taken preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and 6 months postoperatively. Patients were also followed up clinically. Results There was a statistically significant increase in bone width at 0mm and 3mm from the top of the alveolar ridge in the immediate postoperative period compared to the preoperative period (P<0.05). 6 months postoperatively, the increase in horizontal bone width at the top of the alveolar ridge was (3.60±2.29) mm compared to preoperative measurements (P>0.05). The increase in horizontal bone width at 3 mm from the top of the alveolar ridge was (2.85±1.54) mm compared to preoperative measurements, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). And compared to the immediate postoperative period, the bone augmentation at different distances from the top of the alveolar ridge remained basically stable 6 months postoperatively, with no significant bone resorption observed (P>0.05). Conclusion Bone blocks harvested from the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus show effective bone augmentation and favorable clinical outcomes when used in the horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation using the tenting technique. It provides a new surgical method for cases with insufficient alveolar ridge width in the maxillary posterior region, especially when combined with severe bone height deficiency requiring lateral window technique for sinus floor elevation.

Key words: Lateral wall of maxillary sinus, Tenting technique, Horizontal bone augmentation, Maxillary posterior teeth