Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 28, 2025
08:50
Technique and Patient Selection Criteria of Right Anterior Mini-Thoracotomy for Minimal Access Aortic Valve Replacement
Published on: March 26, 2018
12.1K
Decisions Before Incisions: Technique Selection for the Distal Wedge Procedure
Thomas M Johnson1, Robert W Herold1, Joshua A Akers1
1Department of Periodontics, Army Postgraduate Dental School, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Fort Gordon, GA.
Clinical Advances in Periodontics
|February 16, 2020
Summary
Choosing the optimal surgical technique for a distal wedge procedure depends on factors like the dental arch and gingival dimensions. Operator preference often guides technique selection, but specific anatomical challenges may favor certain methods, including laser-assisted approaches.
Area of Science:
- Periodontal surgery
- Oral and maxillofacial surgery
Background:
- The distal wedge procedure is a common surgical technique used in periodontics.
- Technique selection for this procedure is often based on operator preference rather than definitive evidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors guiding the optimal surgical technique selection for distal wedge procedures.
- To present a systematic approach for choosing the appropriate distal wedge technique.
- To introduce a laser-assisted protocol for challenging cases.
Main Methods:
- Review of factors influencing incision design for distal wedge procedures.
- Presentation of a systematic approach to technique selection.
- Description of a laser-assisted distal wedge protocol.
Main Results:
- Incision design is influenced by the dental arch, distance to anatomical landmarks (hamular notch/ascending ramus), and attached gingiva dimensions.
- Favorable clinical outcomes are generally achievable with various distal wedge methods.
- Anatomical limitations can complicate conventional techniques, highlighting the advantages of specific approaches.
Conclusions:
- Distal wedge technique selection is primarily based on operator preference, but anatomical factors are crucial.
- A systematic approach and laser-assisted techniques can simplify treatment in challenging cases with specific anatomical limitations.
