Kalvolisäys

Kalvolisäys, often translated as "membrane augmentation" or "membrane thickening," is a surgical procedure used in dentistry to increase the volume of the jawbone, particularly in the area of the maxillary sinus. This technique is primarily employed when a dental implant needs to be placed in a region where there is insufficient bone height due to the presence of the sinus cavity. The procedure aims to create a stable foundation for the implant by grafting bone material beneath the membrane lining the maxillary sinus.

There are generally two main approaches to kalvolisäys: the direct (or open) and indirect (or closed) sinus lift. The indirect method involves lifting the sinus membrane from within the socket where the tooth will be placed, typically using specialized instruments to push the membrane upwards and create space for bone graft material. This method is often preferred when the existing bone height is closer to the required dimension for implant placement. The direct method, on the other hand, involves creating a window in the side of the jawbone to access the sinus cavity, allowing for direct visualization and manipulation of the membrane and the placement of the bone graft. This technique is generally used when there is significantly less bone height.

The bone graft material can be autogenous (from the patient's own body), allogeneic (from a human donor), or xenogeneic (from an animal source). The success of kalvolisäys depends on factors such as the patient's overall health, oral hygiene, and the surgeon's expertise. Following the procedure, a healing period is required before a dental implant can be placed, allowing the grafted material to integrate with the existing bone and form a solid base. Complications, though infrequent, can include sinus membrane perforation or infection.