Wound Healing of the Laterally Positioned Flap: A Histomorphometric Assessment

Int J Periodontics Restorative Dent. 2015 Nov-Dec;35(6):785-92. doi: 10.11607/prd.2491.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to histomorphometrically assess the soft tissue anatomy in single gingival recessions (GR) treated with a laterally positioned flap (LPF). Five patients presenting maxillary first molars with GR to the apex of the buccal surface of the mesial-buccal root were invited to take part. The LPF-treated roots were removed en bloc (the root and the soft tissue covering the treated GR) 3 to 4 months postoperatively. Photomicrographs of Mallory trichrome stain sections were taken to allow reassessment of the specimens regarding the longitudinal dimensions of the crevicular/sulcular and junctional epithelia. The use of LPF resulted in new attachment with formation of crevicular epithelium, long junctional epithelium, and some connective tissue, re-establishing the normal anatomical characteristics of the soft tissues covering the previously exposed root.

MeSH terms

  • Biometry
  • Dentistry, Operative / methods*
  • Gingiva / anatomy & histology*
  • Histocytochemistry
  • Humans
  • Surgical Flaps*
  • Wound Healing*