Four-years' experience with dynamic implants with internal port for minimally invasive sinus elevation

Objective: The purpose of this article is to describe long-term results of the dynamic implant valve approach (DIVA) for the dental implant procedures when the implant system with internal ports was used. Method and Materials: During 2012 to 2015, 378 titanium-aluminum-vanadium implants (Ti₆Al₄V ELI; diameter 3.75 mm; length 11.5 and 13 mm) were implanted in 172 patients (one to nine implants per patient) using the DIVA technique. The DIVA implants were used in cases when sinus membrane and/or nasal floor elevation procedures were needed. The condition of the implants was assessed during the follow-up period up to 60 months. Results: Out of 378 inserted implants, 257 implants were inserted in the maxilla with the bone level 5 mm, and 121 implants were inserted in the maxilla with the bone level > 5 mm. In 357 cases (94.5%), the implantation was totally successful both from objective CBCT clinical and subjective patients' viewpoints. The comparison of complication rates between the cases with the bone level 5 mm and the cases with the bone level > 5 mm indicated no significant difference (P = .32). Conclusion: Preliminary results that the DIVA simplifies the dental implantation procedure and augmentation treatment were confirmed. The implant with an inner sealing screw can be used in cases with elevation of the maxillary sinus membrane, and simplifies the surgery and secures optimal dental implant placement. This new type of implant simplifies the maintenance phase of implant dentistry and helps to overcome possible complications. Keywords: dental implant, implant maintenance, maxillary sinus floor elevation