Effectiveness of human amnion as a graft material in lower anterior ridge vestibuloplasty: a clinical study.

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical use of amnion as a biodegradable graft material for lower anterior ridge vestibuloplasty. STUDY DESIGN Ten patients who had been referred for preprosthetic surgery underwent mandibular anterior ridge vestibuloplasty using Clark's technique and amniotic membrane as a graft material. Preoperative vestibular depth was measured. Fresh amniotic membrane was placed in the surgical site and sutured with 4-0 vicryl. In all ten cases suction catheter stent was used and was secured in the depth of the vestibule by using 1-0 mersilk percutaneous sutures. RESULTS Vestibular depths were measured using a divider and a scale. Post operative measurements were taken at the end of 10th day, 1st month and 3rd month. And an average gain of 4-6 mm in the depth of the labial vestibule was noted. CONCLUSION Amniotic membrane can be a favorable graft material for vestibuloplasty, promoting healing and preventing relapse. It is easily available and preserved and a cost effective material.