Enamel matrix proteins in the treatment of deep intrabony defects

The present study evaluated the healing of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) proteins in the treatment of periodontal lesions with deep intrabony defects.

Ten deep intrabony defects in 7 periodontal patients were treated and followed for 1 year. The sites had a probing depth (PD) > or = 8 mm; clinical attachment level (CAL) > or = 9 mm, and intrabony component depth > or = 5 mm. All subjects received therapy prior to surgery and had a plaque score (PI) < or = 10%. Full thickness flaps were elevated buccally and lingually, granulation tissue was removed from the defects, and the root surfaces were planed. A 24% EDTA gel was applied followed by the enamel matrix protein preparation. The flaps were closed with interrupted sutures. The patients rinsed with a chlorhexidine solution twice a day for 6 weeks. They were recalled every 2 weeks for 6 months for professional tooth cleaning and then every 4 weeks for an additional 6 months. The experimental sites were re-examined 6 and 12 months after regenerative surgery.

At the 1-year examination, the mean CAL gain was 6.5 mm, the mean PD was 3.2 mm, and mean radiographic bone fill was 4.7 mm.

The application of enamel matrix proteins in combination with open flap curettage and root planing resulted in a gain of CAL and bone fill in deep intrabony defects.