Retrieval of a Displaced Dental Implant from the Maxillary Sinus by the Caldwell–Luc Procedure: A Comprehensive Case Report

Abstract

Dental implant displacement into the maxillary sinus is an uncommon but clinically significant complication of implant placement in the posterior maxilla. This case report describes a 50-year-old female who presented with persistent heaviness and discomfort in the right posterior maxilla, intermittent nasal stuffiness, cheek pressure, and mild pain for 20 days after implant placement. Clinical examination showed no acute infection or oroantral communication. Cone-beam computed tomography demonstrated a 10–11 mm dental implant lying freely within the right maxillary sinus, together with marked sinus pneumatisation, reduced alveolar bone height, and mild adjacent Schneiderian membrane thickening. The displaced implant was retrieved using the Caldwell–Luc procedure because its posterior location required direct surgical access. A full-thickness mucoperiosteal flap was elevated, a controlled bony window was created in the anterior sinus wall, and the implant was visualised and removed with sinus forceps. The sinus was irrigated with sterile saline, and primary closure was achieved. No purulent discharge or extensive sinus pathology was observed intraoperatively. Postoperative management included antibiotics, analgesics, nasal decongestants, and sinus precautions. Healing was uneventful, the patient’s symptoms resolved completely within two weeks, and postoperative CBCT confirmed complete implant removal and restoration of sinus anatomy. The case illustrates the importance of timely symptom recognition, radiographic localisation, and careful surgical access when managing a displaced posterior maxillary implant.