Abstract
Background
This study evaluated the clinical efficacy of the lateral approach, designed explicitly for unchallenged isolated intrabony defects associated with edentulous alveolar ridges, combined with an enamel matrix derivative (EMD) and bovine-derived bone grafting in the regenerative surgical treatment.
Methods
Seven intrabony defects distal to the lower second molar were treated using a lateral approach combined with EMD and bone grafting. The primary parameters measured were clinical attachment level (CAL) and pocket probing depth (PPD). Clinical outcomes were assessed 6 months post-surgery and compared with the baseline values.
Results
Pocket closure and primary wound healing occurred in 100% of cases, and no complications were reported in terms of flap dehiscence, graft exposure, or suture failure. At the 6-month re-evaluation, the initial median CAL of 6 mm (interquartile range: 5–8 mm) was reduced to 3 mm (3–5 mm). The corresponding median PPD was reduced from 6 mm (6–8 mm) to 4 mm (3–5 mm). The differences were statistically significant for both primary parameters (p <0.05).
Conclusions
The lateral approach is a valid technique for the surgical treatment of intrabony defects associated with the edentulous ridge. This method seems particularly suitable for distal intrabony defects in the lower second molars, which frequently develop after third molar extraction.
Study Registration
This study was not intended as a clinical trial and according to https://grants.nih.gov/policy/clinical-trials/definition.htm is not considered a clinical trial, since its main purpose is “solely to refine measures”. The registration was therefore not required by the Ethics Committee approving the study protocol.