Dimensional changes between free gingival grafts fixed with ethyl cyanoacrylate and silk sutures

This study evaluated the dimensional changes in free gingival grafts fixed with ethyl cyanoacrylate or sutures. Twenty-four subjects with gingival recession and absence of keratinized mucosa were divided into two groups: free gingival grafts fixed with ethyl-cyanoacrylate (Group 1) and fixed with sutures (Group 2). Probing depth, clinical attachment level, gingival recession, and dimensional changes of height and width were evaluated immediately post-operatively and at 15, 30, 45, and 90 days after surgery. Results demonstrated that dimensional changes related to the area of gingival graft were similar for both groups. The thickness of the gingival graft tissue influenced the dimensional changes in the height of the grafts in the recipient bed (p < 0.047). Gingival grafts, thinner than 1 mm, showed a greater average height at the end of the study and with no significant changes regarding the total area of the graft. Therefore, it was possible to conclude that the modality of gingival graft fixation did not present any significant influence over the clinical parameters evaluated. In addition, the use of ethyl cyanoacrylate did not alter the graft healing process, suggesting a possible alternative for free gingival graft fixation.