Oroantral communication (OAC) is an abnormal opening between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus that may occur after extraction of posterior maxillary teeth. If not treated promptly, it can lead to sinus contamination, chronic infection, and development of an oroantral fistula requiring more complex surgical management. The standard surgical treatment is closure with a buccal advancement flap (Rehrmann technique). However, this method may reduce vestibular depth, displace the mucogingival junction, and decrease the width of keratinized gingiva.
This prospective clinical study compares two surgical approaches for closure of acute OAC diagnosed within 24 hours after tooth extraction: placement of a resorbable collagen membrane beneath the mucosa versus the conventional buccal advancement flap. Clinical and radiographic parameters related to soft tissue architecture, postoperative recovery, and bone healing are evaluated during a 90-day follow-up period.