Healing After Connective Tissue Graft Harvesting in the Palatal Area With and Without Suture

Healing After Connective Tissue Graft Harvesting in the Palatal Area With and Without Suture: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study evaluated the outcomes in the early healing of palatal wounds after harvesting a subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) using the single incision technique with placement of a collagen haemostatic sponge (CHS) without suturing the palate. The primary outcome of this study was to evaluate the early wound healing index (EHI).

The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes in the early wound healing after harvesting a subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) using the single incision technique and collagen haemostatic sponge (CHS) placement, with and without suturing the palate. 36 subjects were randomized to receive (n=18, Suture group-SG) or not a suture (n=18, no Suture group-nSG). Outcomes variables were: Early healing index (EHI) at 7, 14 and 30 days, self-reported pain using a visual analogue scale (VAS) at 7 and 14 days, immediate (iB) and delayed bleeding (dB). Data obtained were compared by Fisher's exact test, T test for independent sample, Mann-Whitney test (U test) and Wilcoxon sign test as appropriate. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Statistical analysis was performed with Infostat version 2015.

Inclusion Criteria

• Subjects with an indication of mucogingival surgery for single gingival recession treatment that required harvesting a subepithelial connective tissue graft
• Age >18 years ≤ 60 years.
• Periodontally and systemically healthy.
• Palatal fibromucosa width ≥ 2mm evaluated with a North Carolina probe placed perpendicular to the hard palate, prior to surgery.

Exclusion Criteria

• Smoking.
• Contraindications for periodontal surgery.
• Subjects presenting coagulation disorders (history of Haemophilia, von Willebrand disease or anticoagulant therapy).
• Subjects taking medications known to interfere with periodontal tissue health or healing.
• Subjects that had been operated on the palate (connective tissue removed) previously from that same donor area.