Oro-Antral Communications - A Review

Abstract

 Oro-antral communication(OAC) is an abnormal communication between the maxillary sinus and the oral cavity. The causes for OAC are varied and related most commonly to teeth related factors including extraction of maxillary premolar and maxillary molar. due to the anatomical proximity of the maxillary sinus floor to the root apices of these teeth. Management initially focuses on follow up of cases with high index of suspicion. It is prudent to establish presence of infection, if any. It is important to evaluate the patient for the possibility of OAC occurrence prior to extractions with radiographs. A blunt probe test confirms the existence of fistulous tract. Any of the above mentioned surgical techniques can be used for closure of OAC in case of no-closure spontaneously.

 Oro-antral communication(OAC) is an abnormal communication between the maxillary sinus and the oral cavity. The causes for OAC are varied and related most commonly to teeth related factors including extraction of maxillary premolar and maxillary molar. due to the anatomical proximity of the maxillary sinus floor to the root apices of these teeth. Management initially focuses on follow up of cases with high index of suspicion. It is prudent to establish presence of infection, if any. It is important to evaluate the patient for the possibility of OAC occurrence prior to extractions with radiographs. A blunt probe test confirms the existence of fistulous tract. Any of the above mentioned surgical techniques can be used for closure of OAC in case of no-closure spontaneously.