The Use of a Porous Hydroxylapatite Implant in Periodontal Defects

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Abstract
Twenty-five patients with advanced periodontal destruction were studied. Following initial therapy, 2 angular interproximal defects were selected in each patient. During flap surgery a porous hydroxylapatite implant shaped to fit the periodontal defect was placed in 1 defect, the other defect was used as nonimplanted control. The material used for implantation was a hydroxylapatite replicate of coral from the genus Porites, with a pore size of 190 to 220 .mu.m. Clinical parameters were measured prior to flap surgery for each of the defects. An occlusal acrylic stent was used to give a stable reference point for pocket depth, attachment level and gingival margin height measurements. Also gingival fluid, gingival inflammation, plaque index and tooth mobility were recorded. Periapical radiographs using a standardized positioning device were also taken. At the time of surgery, the depth of the osseous defect and the height of the alveolar crest were recorded. After 6 mo. the clinical measurements were repeated and a re-entry surgery was carried out in 15 selected sites. The porous implant produced statistically significant reduction in pocket depth, in the depth of osseous lesion and a statistically significant gain in attachment level, as compared to control areas.