How should a complication of a maxillary sinus exposure be managed?

When managing a complication of maxillary sinus exposure, the correct approach is to utilize both a collagen plug and a buccal or palatal flap. This strategy addresses the issue more comprehensively by providing an effective barrier and promoting healing in the area of the exposure.

The collagen plug plays a significant role in filling the defect where the sinus has been exposed, helping to minimize the risk of further complications such as infection or nutrient loss to the surrounding tissue. Additionally, the inclusion of a buccal or palatal flap significantly enhances the repair process by providing additional soft tissue coverage, which is crucial to protect the exposed area from the oral environment and ensure adequate healing.

This method combines mechanical support from the collagen plug and biological support from the flap, reducing the likelihood of persistent issues and promoting more effective healing of the sinus and surrounding tissues. Hence, this dual approach is favored when managing maxillary sinus exposure complications. In contrast, options that suggest less invasive measures, such as observation or simple suturing, do not provide the necessary protection or promote healing effectively in this scenario.