Treatment of periodontal defects with an absorbable membrane (polyglactin 910) with and without osseous grafting: case reports.

The purpose of these reports is to illustrate the possible use of polyglactin 910 as an absorbable membrane for periodontal healing. Eleven surgical sites in 10 patients are reported. Vicryl mesh was used on all sites, and osseous allograft material was used in 8 of these sites. Radiographic evaluation and sounding with anesthesia indicate improvement in the treated areas. Few adverse effects were seen at the treated sites. Therefore, polyglactin offers promise as a material for use in periodontal therapy, especially in deep infrabony pockets. Further controlled studies comparing polyglactin 910 and other resorbable materials as barrier membranes are needed to establish their safety and efficacy.