[Healing of osseous defects by guided bone regeneration using ribose cross linked collagen membranes]

The ultimate goal of periodontal therapy has long been the complete regeneration of the periodontal attachment apparatus. Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR) and Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) are two regenerative procedures which converted this goal from a dream to reality. In search of a biocompatible resorbable tissue barrier, collagen, being a natural protein and a weak antigen, has attracted much interest and became the focus of much intention during the 80's and the 90's. The understanding that cross linking of collagen with aldehyde sugars, especially ribose, produces collagen which is highly resistant to resorption in vivo led to the development of a "natural" Crossed-Linked Collagen Barrier (CB-SX). Animal and Human studies have shown that the newly developed membrane is biocompatible, remains intact in the tissues 6 months and more, and results in impressive guided tissue/bone regeneration. Spontaneous early exposure of the membrane is common but the healing potential of the resulted tissue dehiscence is favorable with no tendency for bacterial infection. The commercial version of the CB-SX is especially suitable for GBR procedures; it is highly recommended that the gingival flaps involved will properly be released, will lack tension, and be thoroughly sutured.