Palatal Augmentation Technique: A Predictable Method to Increase the Palatal Connective Tissue at Donor Sites- A Consecutive Case Series

The palatal masticatory mucosa between the canine and first molar is the main source of connective tissue graft (CTG) for use in periodontal plastic surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the palatal augmentation technique (PAT) to increase the palatal connective tissue donor area using a collagen sponge inserted between the palatal flap and bone. The 26 patients enrolled in this study were referred for root coverage and ridge augmentation procedures. All patients lacked adequate donor palatal tissue thickness. The PAT uses a full-thickness flap and insertion of a sterile lyophilized bovine collagen sponge between the flap and bone. The palatal thickness was clinically assessed before and after collagen sponge insertion. A manual probe was inserted in the mucosal surface perpendicular to the long axis of each tooth approximately 6 mm from the gingival margin. Probing depth (PD) and recession (REC) were also recorded. Treatment with PAT resulted in a statistically significant increase in the palatal thickness. The overall mean increase was from 2.03 mm before surgery to 3.57 mm after surgery, with no major alterations in PD and REC. Healing proceeded uneventfully and occurred by primary intention. PAT appeared to be a predictable procedure to create connective tissue donor graft in deficient areas and had uneventful postoperative healing.