Sling and tag suturing technique for coronally advanced flap
1Graduate Student, Department of Periodontics/Prevention/Geriatrics, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-1078, USA.
Summary
A new suturing technique, sling and tag (SAT), significantly improved root coverage in patients with gingival recession. This method enhances the coronally advanced flap (CAF) procedure, offering predictable results for periodontal regeneration.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Regenerative Dentistry
Background:
- Coronally advanced flap (CAF) is a standard procedure for root coverage.
- Securing the flap coronally and maintaining its position during healing presents challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a modified incision design and a novel suturing technique (sling and tag - SAT).
- To evaluate the efficacy of the modified CAF with SAT for root coverage in Miller Class I defects.
Main Methods:
- Ten patients with Miller Class I gingival recession defects (≥2.5 mm) were treated.
- Clinical parameters including recession depth, width, attachment level, probing depth, tissue thickness, and keratinized gingiva width were measured at baseline and 1 year post-surgery.
- Paired t-tests were used for statistical analysis.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in recession depth (2.6 mm) and width (2.9 mm) were observed after 1 year.
- An average of 93.0% root coverage was achieved.
- A statistically significant gain in clinical attachment level (3.3 mm) was noted, with no significant changes in probing depth or keratinized gingiva width.
Conclusions:
- The modified flap design and SAT suturing technique enhance the outcomes of CAF for root coverage.
- This technique offers a predictable and effective solution for treating gingival recession defects.
- Further studies may explore its application in different recession classes.