Socket sealing post-extractive with a xenogenic porcine collagen matrix: A prospective clinical trial

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this prospective cohort study is to test the performance of a new xenogenic collagen matrix as a socket sealing material, to allow second-intention healing of post-extractive sockets filled with a xenogenic bone substitute or with an immediate submerged implant. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 10 patients were recruited, presenting with a single-rooted tooth scheduled for extraction. After atraumatic tooth removal, the post-extractive alveolus received either a socket preservation procedure or an immediate submerged implant. In both cases, the gingival margins of the alveolus were sealed with a xenogenic collagen matrix (Mucoderm, Botiss Dental, Zossen, Germany). The following parameters were evaluated: a) exposed surface of the matrix at the end of surgery (T0); b) soft tissue healing at 1, 4, 6, and 8 weeks from surgery (T1-4); c) histological aspect of gingiva samples, harvested 20 weeks after surgery (T5); d) aesthetic performance provided by the socket sealing material (T4). Results: a) the mean postoperative exposure area of the matrix was 26.25 mm2 (14.2 to 38.84 mm2); b) 8 weeks after surgery, full wound closure was achieved in 9 out of 10 sites with healthy keratinized tissue; c) the histological evaluation of gingiva sample reveled the presence of healthy keratinized gingival tissue, with no signs of aberrations or anomalies; d) the mean colorimetric score ΔE between the regenerated site and the surrounding gingiva was 3.76 (3 to 6.55). Seven out of 10 patients reported an excellent aesthetic integration of the matrix (ΔE <3.7). CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary results from this study suggest that this new xenogenic porcine-derived collagen matrix could represent a valuable alternative to allow second intention healing of post-extractive sockets filled with a xenogenic bone substitute or with an immediate submerged implant