Evaluation of the use of freeze-dried skin allografts in the treatment of human mucogingival problems.

The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the clinical responses to freeze-dried skin allografts when used to correct mucogingival problems in humans. FDS was obtained by the NMRI Tissue Bank after processing by standard procedures. The recipient sites were prepared using the standard partial thickness dissection with apical periosteal separation. Rehydrated FDS was sutured into place to completely cover the recipient sites. Routine postoperative procedures were performed. Evaluations were made by means of calibrated periodontal probe measurements, Kodachromes, and radiographs preoperatively and up to 12 months postoperatively. Fourteen patients received 24 FDS allografts over a total of 56 tooth sites. All treated teeth showed a substantial increase (greater than 2 mm) in the width of the zone of keratinized gingiva at all postoperative time periods (2.88 +/- 1.57 mm at 12 months). Other findings included a mean gain of attachment of 0.40 +/- 1.08 mm, a mean decrease in recession of 0.12 +/- 0.91 mm, and mean decrease in pocket depth of 0.33 +/- 0.53 mm. Patient comfort was good, and there were no untoward sequelae, even in patients receiving multiple grafts. This study indicates that FDS allografts are an acceptable and beneficial material for treatment of mucogingival problems in humans.