Comparative analysis of various soft tissue augmentation technique effectiveness around implants

Relevance. Today soft tissue augmentation is performed with autogenous and xenografts to achieve optimal gingival parameters around implants. It is worth noting the lack of clinical studies aimed at a comparative analysis of the postoperative condition of patients and aesthetic parameters. Purpose. The study aimed to evaluate the clinical advantages and disadvantages of collagen matrix and autografts in soft tissue augmentation around dental implants. Material and methods. Thirty-two patients with soft tissue thickness deficiency around intended implantation formed two groups: Group 1 had a subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) during surgery, and Group 2 had a xenogeneic collagen matrix (CM). In the postoperative period, we assessed the surgery duration, the severity of postoperative pain (VAS scale) and ooedema, daily NSAID dose, quality of life (OHIP-14), and pink aesthetics (PES). Results. The surgery duration was 30.31 ± 6.98 (SD) and 26.31 ± 6.81 (SD) minutes in Groups 1 and 2, respectively (p = 0.111). Patients in group 1 had more pronounced postoperative pain. On day one after the surgery, the mean value was 3.06 ± 1.73 (SD) in group 1 and 1.94 ± 1.48 (SD) in group 2 (p = 0.002). Patients in group 1 more often took NSAIDs on days 1 and 3 after surgery: 2.00 (Q1 1.00, Q3 3.00) and 1.50 (Q1 0.00, Q3 2.00), respectively, than patients in group 2: 1.00 (Q1 1.00, Q3 2.00) and 0.00 (Q1 0.00, Q3 1.00). Patients of Group 2 showed a more pronounced collateral oedema on days 1 and 3 (p<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the reduction in quality of life between patients in both groups. The aesthetic results in Group 1 were better than in Group 2 by the shape of the alveolar ridge and marginal soft tissue level. There was no difference in the colour of soft tissues between the surgical area and surrounding tissues in almost all patients. Conclusion. The CM provides a more comfortable postoperative period but, however, leads to more pronounced collateral ooedema. The SCTG demonstrates the best aesthetic result of the treatment.