Expression of interleukin 1-beta, transforming growth factor beta-1, and vascular endothelial growth factor in soft tissue over the implant before uncovering.

BACKGROUND

Overexpression of inflammatory cytokines interleukin 1-beta (IL-1beta), transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-beta1), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) may cause healing impairment following implant insertion, jeopardizing success especially in patients previously irradiated. Limited data is available regarding expression pattern of inflammatory cytokines in peri-implant soft tissue caused by the surgical intervention itself.

STUDY DESIGN

This study examined 21 patients receiving dental implants. Biopsies of peri-implant tissue were harvested at re-entry 4 months after initial surgery. Eight patients underwent probing of untreated mucosa. Three groups were created (group 1: regular peri-implant mucosa; group 2: patients with irradiated peri-implant mucosa, radiation treatment due to oral squamous cell cancer; group 3: control). Immunohistochemical staining was performed for TGFss1, IL-1ss, and VEGF.

RESULTS

Following the placement of dental implants (group 1 vs group 3) a significant increase (P > .05) in TGF-beta1, IL-1beta, and VEGF expression in the peri-implant mucosa was demonstrated. No alteration of this distinct pattern was found for previously irradiated tissue (group 1 vs. group 2).

CONCLUSIONS

The study highlights the fundamental involvement of TGF-beta1, IL-1beta, and VEGF during the regeneration of peri-implant soft tissue structures. The use of extended interim solutions may be one clinical implication of these prolonged tissue remodeling processes.