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Updated: Jun 26, 2026
A Novel Approach to Monitoring Graft Neovascularization in the Human Gingiva
Published on: January 12, 2019
Acellular dermal matrix graft for gingival augmentation: a preliminary clinical, histologic, and ultrastructural
Antonio Scarano1, Raquel R M Barros, Giovanna Iezzi
1School of Dentistry, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy.
Background:
The aim of this study was to evaluate clinically, histologically, and ultrastructurally the integration process of the acellular dermal matrix used to increase the band of keratinized tissue while achieving gingival inflammation control.
Methods:
Ten patients exhibiting a mucogingival problem with bands of keratinized tissue
Results:
Clinically, a gain of keratinized tissue of 2.92 +/- 0.65 mm was observed after 3 months. Histologically and ultrastructurally, many macrophages were observed phagocytosing preexisting collagen fibers in the first weeks. From week 2 on, fibroblasts synthesizing new collagen, epithelial cells colonizing the graft surface, and revascularization were noticed. After 6 weeks it was difficult to find the acellular dermal matrix preexisting collagen fibers. This process of substitution was completed after 10 weeks, when the reepithelialization of the entire graft throughout a well-structured basement membrane was achieved.
Conclusion:
The acellular dermal matrix graft seemed to be an easily handled material for use in keratinized tissue augmentation that, in humans, was substituted and completely reepithelialized in 10 weeks according to histologic and ultrastructural results.
