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Postoperative palatal hematoma management using a near-infrared laser: A case study
Toria L Koutras1, Brian W Stancoven1, Adam R Lincicum1
1Department of Periodontics, Army Postgraduate Dental School, Fort Gordon, Georgia, USA.
Clinical Advances in Periodontics
|July 17, 2025
Summary
Photobiomodulation (PBM) with a neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser may effectively manage palatal hematomas after subepithelial connective tissue graft harvesting. This laser treatment, combined with supplement discontinuation, led to near-complete healing in a case of palatal hematoma.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Laser Dentistry
- Oral Surgery
Background:
- Subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) is a standard for gingival augmentation and recession treatment.
- Palatal soft tissue harvesting for SCTG can lead to complications like excessive bleeding and hematoma formation.
- Postoperative palatal hematomas can displace wound margins, potentially delaying healing.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old male developed a palatal hematoma after SCTG surgery, complicated by extended bleeding possibly due to dietary supplements.
- The hematoma measured 10x12 mm at 6 weeks postoperative.
- Near-complete palatal healing was observed 14 days after neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser photobiomodulation (PBM) and supplement cessation.
Findings:
- Nd:YAG laser PBM, alongside discontinuing contributing dietary supplements, resulted in rapid resolution of the palatal hematoma.
- This case suggests that laser PBM may be a viable adjunct for managing postoperative palatal hematomas.
- Limited evidence supports PBM's role in enhancing outcomes at palatal soft tissue donor sites.
Implications:
- Near-infrared laser PBM may offer a novel therapeutic approach for palatal hematoma management in periodontics.
- Further controlled clinical research is warranted to validate the efficacy and optimal parameters for laser PBM in treating palatal hematomas.
- Addressing underlying causes of bleeding, such as dietary supplements, is crucial for successful treatment outcomes.
