Guided tissue regeneration using bioresorbable and non-resorbable devices: initial healing and long-term results

Studies on periodontal wound healing have resulted in the development of the treatment modality known as "guided tissue regeneration" (GTR) based on a principle of guiding the proliferation of the various periodontal tissue components during healing following periodontal surgery. The first report of a human tooth treated according to the principle of GTR was presented 10 years ago by Nyman et al. Since then numerous clinical studies and animal experiments have been performed bringing the concept of GTR to a clinical reality. We also know that the results obtained through GTR therapy can be maintained on a long-term basis. The first generation of GTR devices has been non-resorbable, which calls for a second surgical procedure. This is avoided when bioresorbable devices become available. This paper suggests some demands regarding safety and efficacy criteria for both non-resorbable and bioresorbable devices. Results from recent animal experiments and clinical studies following the use of a bioresorbable device in GTR therapy are presented.