Maxillary arch dimensions after palatal surgery and implantation of poly-(L-lactic) acid membranes in beagle dogs.

The effect of implantation of poly-(L-lactic) acid membranes after palatal surgery on dentoalveolar development was investigated. Beagle dogs were randomly assigned to four experimental groups and a control group. In the experimental groups, a soft tissue defect was created in the medial region of the palate by excising a standardized elliptical mucoperiosteal flap at 12 weeks of age. This defect was closed according to the Von Langenbeck technique, leaving two areas of denuded bone. Poly-(L-lactic) acid membranes were implanted on the denuded bony areas either directly or 3 weeks after surgery. Group L and LS served as sham groups. Dental casts were made at regular intervals until 25 weeks of age, and maxillary arch dimensions were studied. Dental arch dimensions in the deciduous dentition of the experimental groups were not markedly disturbed, but after transition of teeth, mainly transversal maxillary arch dimensions in the premolar region were reduced. It was concluded that implantation of poly-(L-lactic) acid membranes after palatal surgery in Beagle dogs did not prevent iatrogenic disturbances of dentoalveolar development under conditions used in this study.