The Use of a Novel Porcine Derived Acellular Dermal Matrix (Mucoderm) in Peri-Implant Soft Tissue Augmentation: Preliminary Results of a Prospective Pilot Cohort Study.

OBJECTIVE

Over the years, several techniques have been proposed for soft tissue augmentation around dental implants in order to improve keratinized mucosa width (KMW). Recently, a porcine derived acellular dermal matrix (Mucoderm®) has been proposed as autogenous graft substitute in order to avoid palatal harvesting and obtain comparable results to connective tissue grafts, in terms of aesthetics and function. The aim of this study is to present the one-year follow-up results of this matrix in peri-implant soft tissue augmentation procedures.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twelve patients were enrolled in this pilot prospective study: a dental implant was placed in the upper premolar area and, at implant uncovering after eight weeks, the matrix was inserted. KMW gain was considered as primary outcome variable.

RESULTS

After one month from matrix insertion, mean KMW was 7.86±3.22 mm (100%), with no statistically significant intragroup variations (>0.05). No membrane exposures or wound healing complications occurred during postoperative phase and, after one year, mean KMW was 5.67±2.12 mm (72.13%).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present pilot study indicate that by placing a Mucoderm membrane during implant surgery the keratinized tissue width can be augmented, and the width remains stable for the assessment period of 12 months. Further studies with greater power and longer investigation period are needed to confirm the suggestion for clinical use. Clinical trial registration number is EudraCT number 2018-000147-16.