Split palatal flap. I. A surgical approach for primary soft tissue healingin ridge augmentation procedures: Technique and clinical results

This article describes a surgical procedure to predictably obtain primary c losure over extraction sockets in the maxilla. The technique offers a valua ble treatment approach for the achievement of primary soft tissue closure o ver bone grafts and/or occlusive osteopromotive membranes, although the use of an osteopromotive membrane may not always be necessary in cases of sing le-tooth extraction. The surgical technique is based on a split thickness p alatal flap in which the pediculated deep portion is rotated to cover the g rafted alveolus or membrane. This procedure was used in a total of 40 sites in 32 consecutive patients. a barrier membrane was used in 20 sites. Ail t reated sites allowed proper implant placement after healing. Two membranes became prematurely exposed and one was removed before implant surgery Prope r soft and hard tissue anatomy was predictably obtained prior to implant pl acement. This surgical procedure is useful in preserving and/or augmenting the alveolar ridge prior to or during implant placement in cases of advance d alveolar bone loss.