A pedicled palatal periosteal flap for the closure of oro-antral fistula

Various surgical techniques have been developed for oro-antral fistula (OAF) closure, all of which have some drawback. Twenty consecutive patients with an OAF were enrolled in this prospective study. A trapezoid full-thickness flap extending from the palatal area to the buccal gingiva was raised, including the fistula at its centre. The palatal free end aspect was split into two layers and the deep periosteal layer was folded deep to the flap over the bony defect, thereby sealing the fistula. The superficial layer was returned to its primary position and sutured. The patients were followed for 3 months. Nineteen patients showed immediate OAF closure. One patient showed a residual oro-antral communication of 0.5 mm in diameter that resolved spontaneously within 4 weeks. The pain level (on a visual analogue scale) was highest at the first follow-up week, with a mean score of 5.5, which decreased to a mean level of 2.5 in the second week and 0 in the fourth week. The mean satisfaction level was 9.85 on a scale of 0-10 (10 representing total satisfaction). The pedicled palatal periosteal flap is a simple and effective surgical technique with high predictability and patient satisfaction levels, offering one more alternative for the treatment of OAF.