Revascularization following a combined gingival flap-split thickness flap procedure in monkeys.

A combined technique (gingival flap-split thickness flap) was performed in monkeys. The clinical, histological and microvascular aspects of healing were studied, mainly focusing on the gingival flap, since some of the vessels supplying this area were severed during the second phase of the procedure. The animals were perfused with a combined solution of Pelikan carbon black and 10% formalin solution and killed from 1 to 35 days postoperatively. Cleared specimens and regular histology were obtained. It was concluded that: (1) the remaining periosteal vessels and surrounding structures provided enough nutrition for the survival of the gingival flap, (2) the microvascularization was normal at the 14 days postoperative period in both the gingival flap and the apically positioned split areas and (3) the exposed connective tissue remained narrow and exhibited an irregular vascular arrangement throughout the experiment.