A Technique for Augmenting the Palatal Connective Tissue Donor Site: Clinical Case Report and Histologic Evaluation

This case report describes a simple method for augmenting tissue at prospective palatal connective tissue donor sites. The patient was referred for treatment of facial marginal tissue recession on the maxillary left canine. Clinical examination indicated that the palatal mucosa was thin and did not provide an adequate volume of soft tissue for donor harvesting, precluding the use of a palatal connective tissue graft for treatment of the recession defect. Sterile lyophilized bovine collagen sponge was therefore surgically inserted between a full-thickness palatal flap and bone at the prospective donor site. Eight weeks postoperative, the augmented palatal donor area showed a significant clinical increase in thickness and volume and served as a connective tissue donor source in the treatment of the facial marginal tissue recession. Histologic analysis of the donor tissue demonstrated normal structure, fibrous connective tissue, and abundant collagen. Clinical examination 6 months following surgery showed complete root coverage, with tissue texture, volume, and color similar to those of the adjacent soft tissue. Healing of the donor site was uneventful. This case report demonstrates that sterile lyophilized collagen sponge material may be used to augment palatal donor connective tissue and can subsequently be used as a donor source for soft tissue grafting.