A modified combined approach to harvest connective tissue grafts with high quality, less morbidity, and faster healing

Harvesting good-quality connective tissue grafts (CTGs) is important in periodontal surgery. Compared with CTGs, free gingival grafts (FGGs) have a slower healing process and higher donor site morbidity. As far as graft quality and anatomic limitations are concerned, deepithelialized free gingival grafts (DE-FGGs) are superior to CTGs. In the current study, a modified combined approach is proposed that aims to address the disadvantages of conventional FGG harvesting methods. This approach entails harvesting a thin and narrow DE-FGG, repositioning the epithelial layer, and applying a plastic stent. The outcomes of this improved method indicate fast healing at the donor sites, fewer postoperative complications, and better esthetic results at the recipient sites.