[Healing and integration of ePTFE membranes]

In this study 40 patients with adult periodontitis received periodontal therapy with ePTFE membranes according to the principle of guided tissue regeneration. Membranes were subgingivally implanted for a period of 4 to 6 weeks. The tissue response was examined clinically and, in 7 cases, also histologically. After removal of the membranes, the membranes themselves and biopsies of the underlying regenerated tissue were prepared for light- and transmission electron microscopy. Clinically most cases showed membrane exposure with recessions and gingival pockets between membrane and gingiva. Histologically all exposed parts of the membranes were contaminated by microorganisms. In the superficial layers of the biopsies microorganisms were found between neutrophils, degenerated collagen fibrils and necrotic cell components.