BACKGROUND: The aim of this controlled randomized split-mouth study was to evaluate
whether a modified tunnel/connective tissue graft (CTG) technique - enamel matrix
derivative (EMD) combination will improve the treatment of multiple class III recession
when compared with the same technique alone. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty healthy
subjects with a mean age of 31.7 years, were enrolled for the trial in a university
periodontal clinic. Patients with at least three adjacent gingival recessions on both
sides of the mouth were treated with a modified tunnel/CTG technique. On the test
side, an EMD was used in addition. Clinical parameters were measured at baseline,
28 days, 3, 6 and 12 months after the surgery. Results are presented at the subject
level. RESULTS: The mean root coverage from baseline to 1 year post-surgery was 82%
for the test group and 83% for the control group. Complete root coverage was achieved
at 1 year in eight (38%) of the 20 surgeries (experimental and control group). CONCLUSIONS:
One-year results indicate that the modified tunnel/CTG technique is predictable for
the treatment of multiple class III recession-type defects. The addition of EMD does
not enhance the mean clinical outcomes.
