Autologous palatal connective tissue flap for primary wound closure in the maxilla: a case report

Abstract

The success of bone augmentation procedures largely depends on achieving tension-free primary closure. One of the main challenges in regenerative techniques is the design of a flap that ensures adequate coverage of the surgical site, particularly following the increase in volume during the healing phase. However, several conventional approaches may compromise vestibular depth and the amount of keratinized mucosa, leading to both aesthetic and functional impairments. The aim of this case report was to describe and evaluate the achievement of tension-free primary closure in the maxilla as part of a regenerative surgery protocol. A 64-year-old female patient is presented, in whom dental implants were placed in the regions corresponding to teeth 13 and 15. A surgical technique aimed at achieving tension-free primary closure in the maxilla was employed. The evaluation included the use of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the preoperative and postoperative periods, as well as the assessment of clinical variables, pain, and follow-up parameters. The surgical approach was associated with an improvement in the patient’s oral function. In conclusion, the applied technique demonstrated satisfactory outcomes both from a surgical perspective and in terms of patient-reported experience, supporting its potential as a viable alternative for maxillary bone regeneration procedures.