Stability of Root Coverage Outcomes After Soft-Tissue Augmentation With a Collagen Matrix With or Without rhPDGF-BB:...

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Gingival recession affects numerous individuals, leading to aesthetic concerns and increased tooth sensitivity.
• Coronally advanced flap (CAF) surgery is a common treatment for gingival recession.
• Enhancing CAF outcomes with biomaterials and growth factors is an active area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the 3-year stability of root coverage achieved with CAF and VCMX, with or without rhPDGF.
• To compare outcomes between VCMX with rhPDGF (test) and VCMX with saline (control).
• To evaluate long-term clinical and ultrasonographic changes in treated and untreated sites.

Main Methods:

• A 3-year, triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 26 participants.
• Comparison of mean root coverage (mRC) at 3 years versus 6 months.
• Assessment of secondary outcomes including complete root coverage, tissue width/thickness, aesthetics, PROMs, and ultrasonographic properties.

Main Results:

• Mean root coverage remained stable from 6 months to 3 years, with minimal decrease in both VCMX groups (6.7% control, 7.5% test).
• Over 90% of treated sites maintained stable gingival margins (≤0.5mm shift).
• No significant differences between groups for volumetric, aesthetic, or PROM outcomes; ultrasonography showed increased tissue elasticity in treated sites.

Conclusions:

• Both VCMX treatments, with or without rhPDGF, provide stable 3-year root coverage and tissue improvements.
• Untreated contralateral sites exhibited progressive gingival recession and increased hypersensitivity.
• VCMX demonstrates sustained efficacy in periodontal soft-tissue regeneration.