Clinical evaluation of a modified marginal sulcular incision technique in endodontic surgery

The authors evaluated periodontal parameters following apical surgery using a new marginal sulcular incision. In 65 cases, surgical access was achieved by means of a sulcular incision technique without the involvement of the adjacent periodontia and the interproximal papillae and in 33 cases by means of a submarginal trapezoidal technique. Periodontal parameters (probing pocket depth, gingival recession, clinical attachment loss, and tooth mobility [periotest]) were recorded at baseline and after 6 months. Scar formation and the loss of papilla height were evaluated photographically. No significant changes in the attachment level and no loss of papilla height were found in either group. A slight gingival recession (0.2 +/- 0.4 mm) corresponding to the decrease in pocket depths occurred on the buccal aspect with the sulcular incision. Tooth mobility was significantly increased in both groups immediately and 6 months after surgery. Scar formation was more unfavorable with the submarginal incision.