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Volume 21 , Issue 3
May/June 2001
Pages 281–287

Plastic Surgery at the Time of Membrane Removal Around Mandibular Endosseous Implants: A Modified Technique for Implant Uncovering

Luca Landi, DDS, Domenico Sabatucci, DDS

PMID: 11490405
DOI: 10.11607/prd.00.0416

Removal of barrier membranes may complicate second-stage implant surgery, particularly in mandibular areas characterized by a shallow vestibule and minimal amount of keratinized tissue. A new surgical technique that permits implant exposure and membrane removal combined with a plastic procedure to improve soft tissue quality both buccally and lingually is presented. A midcrestal incision preserving the keratinized tissue available on the lingual side is designed. A double-layer flap is elevated, allowing membrane removal. The inner, full-thickness layer is then sutured back into place, thus protecting the regenerated bone and allowing a recipient bed for a free gingival graft. The outer, partial-thickness flap is sutured apically, thus deepening the vestibule. The advantages and technical aspects of the procedure are discussed. (Int J Periodontics Restorative Dent 2001;21:281–287.)

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