The use of acellular allogenic dermal matrix in soft tissue management around the implants

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to introduce various strategies to deal with soft tissue using an acellular allogenic dermal matrix and to evaluate postoperative complications and implant prognosis (success rate, survival rate, failure, and marginal bone loss). Materials and Methods: This retrospective study investigated 28 patients who had intraoral surgery using an acellular allogenic dermal matrix (Megaderm, L & C BIO Inc, Seoul, Korea) from May 2013 to December 2017. Vestibuloplasty, increasing keratinized mucosa, soft tissue augmentation, and barrier membrane for bone graft were used as surgical methods in 32 cases. Megaderm was applied to nine cases for barrier membrane after guided bone regeneration and 22 cases for soft tissue treatment. One case was used for bone graft and soft tissue treatment. A total of 48 implants were placed. Results: Among the 48 implants, 25 were counted to measure the success rate because more than a year has passed since the placement of prosthetic devices, and radiographic examination was performed. Three implants had peri-implantitis and was classified as failures. Of the 25 implants, 22 (88%) were successful. As none of implants were removed from the placement site, the survival rate was 100%. Conclusions: Megaderm is a biocompatible material which maintains its collagen structure after the manufacturing process. As a result, it acts as a membrane and graft soft tissue material properly in the intraoral environment.