BACKGROUND: To assess the survival rate of implants placed in the posterior 
maxilla by intentionally perforating the Schneiderian membrane and protruding 
the implant up to 3mm beyond the sinus floor in cases of reduced crestal bone 
height (CBH).
MATERIALS & METHODS: 56 patients with reduced CBH received 63 implants in the 
posterior maxilla. All implants intentionally penetrated the Schneiderian 
membrane and engaged the sinus floor cortical bone. All patients were followed 
up and implant survival was assessed at the end of one year post implant 
restoration.
RESULTS: Out of 63 implants, there was only one failure (98.4% Survival rate) 
after a follow up period of one year. 7 patients experienced mild epistaxis 
during the immediate post-operative period with no associated implant loss. One 
patient developed sinusitis secondary to the surgical procedure, which was 
treated by antibiotic therapy and the patient improved clinically with no 
associated implant loss.
CONCLUSION: An intentional perforation of the Schneiderian membrane using a 2mm 
twist drill at the time of implant placement and protrusion of the implant up to 
3mm beyond the sinus floor does not alter the stability and outcome of dental 
implants, one year post-restoration. This could be associated with minor 
complications ranging from epistaxis to sinusitis, which are manageable. How to 
cite this article: Nooh N. Effect of Schneiderian Membrane Perforation on 
Posterior Maxillary Implant Survival. J Int Oral Health 2013; 5(3):28-34.