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Full versus split thickness flap to increase soft tissue thickness and keratinization of non-keratinized mucosa. A 3-year split mouth randomized clinical trial.
  • Algirdas Puisys
Algirdas Puisys
DDS, PhD, dip period

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Abstract

Background: It was shown, that  CTG from tuberosity tends to determine hyperplastic responses and may induce over-keratinization of non-keratinized mucosa. Aim:Clinically evaluate and compare CTG from tuberosity ability to increase soft tissue thickness and the keratinization potential after recipient area is either prepared using split or full thickness flap in edentulous mandible.  Materials and methods:40 implants were placed in 10 edentulous patients with atrophied mandible (Class IV) presenting less than 1 mm of keratinized tissue using flapless approach and immediately restored with acrylic temporary bridge on multiunit abutments. After randomization implants were divided in to split thickness (N20) and full thickness (N20) groups. CTG from tuber was placed into the socket buccally using split thickness or full thickness flap. Width of keratinized tissue (KT),  horizontal soft tissue thickness (STT), marginal hard and soft tissue level as well as the implant success parameters were collected and analyzed. Results:After 3 years follow-up period the increase of KT was significantly more evident in a split thickness group from 0,6(0,6) to 5,1(0,72)mm, while full thickness group showed very little improvement from 0,5(0,51) to 1(0,57)mm with statistically significant difference between the groups (p<0,001). STT was significantly increased in both groups over time: from 2,4(0,88) to 5,4(0,68)mm in full thickness group and from 2,5(0,51) to 5,8(0,41)mm in split thickness group without any significant difference between the groups.  Conclusion: The increase of soft tissue thickness by using CTG from tuberosity was found in both groups, wile keratinisation of non-keratinized mucosa was more evident in split thickness group. Clinical Implications:Full thickness flap should be used in aesthetic area to increase soft tissue thickness and avoid differentiations of the graft.Split thickness flap should be used in clinical situations when there is a need of KT.