The closure of oroantral communications with resorbable PLGA-coated beta-TCP root analogs, hemostatic gauze, or buccal flaps: A prospective study

Objective. The aim of this study was to compare the treatment of oroantral communications (OACs) with bioresorbable root analogs made of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA)-coated beta-tricalcium phosphate (beta-TCP), hemostatic gauze or a buccal flap technique. Study design. In this prospective clinical study, 30 patients with oroantral communications were randomly assigned to a treatment. Clinical success, vestibular depth at the defect site, pain, and swelling were monitored. Results. The OAC closure was successful in all cases. The vestibular depth stayed constant in the groups treated with the PLGA-beta-TCP composite or hemostatic gauze. In contrast, a vestibular depth reduction of 1.2 +/- 0.2 mm was observed in the buccal flap group, indicating atrophy of the alveolar ridge in these patients. Furthermore, pain and swelling were more pronounced in this group. Conclusion. Closures of OACs with PLGA-beta-TCP composite or hemostatic gauze are reliable minimally invasive methods that minimize atrophy of the alveolar ridge, swelling, and pain compared with a buccal flap technique. (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2009; 108: 844-850)