Comparative Evaluation of Suture Versus Sutureless Surgery in Mandibular Third Molar Impactions

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Surgical Techniques
• Dental Research

Background:

• Impacted mandibular third molars are common, often requiring surgical extraction.
• Suturing is a traditional method for flap closure after extraction.
• Minimally invasive techniques are sought to reduce patient morbidity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare suture versus sutureless surgical techniques for impacted mandibular third molar extraction.
• To evaluate post-operative morbidity and complications associated with each technique.

Main Methods:

• 50 patients with asymptomatic impacted mandibular third molars were randomized into two groups.
• A small V-shaped flap was raised, teeth extracted, and flaps closed with (Group I) or without (Group II) sutures.
• Post-operative pain, swelling, trismus, hemorrhage, periodontal pocket, and alveolar osteitis were assessed.

Main Results:

• Sutureless surgery significantly reduced post-operative pain, swelling, and trismus, particularly in the immediate period (p < 0.001).
• No intra-operative or post-operative hemorrhage occurred in either group.
• Periodontal sequelae and alveolar osteitis rates were similar between the groups.

Conclusions:

• Sutureless surgery for impacted mandibular third molars is less invasive, time-saving, and cost-effective.
• This technique significantly reduces early patient discomfort.
• Sutureless extraction demonstrates good clinical outcomes with comparable complication rates.