Microbiological and FE-SEM Assessment of d-PTFE Membrane Exposed to Oral Environment after Alveolar Socket Preservation Managed with Granular nc-HA
Giulia Mazzucchi, Marco Lollobrigida, Domenica Laurito, Francesca Berlutti, Giorgio Serafini, Alberto De Biase
Abstract
AIM: The aim of this study was to analyze, by the aid of microbiological analysis and the field emission scanning electron microscopical (FE-SEM) analysis, the role of high-density polytetrafluoroethylene (d-PTFE) membranes in avoiding the microbial colonization of a nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (nc-HA) bone graft and the involvement of this colonization in the healing process. MATERIALS AND METHODS: test (confidence interval: 95%). RESULTS: > 0.05). The FE-SEM analysis revealed structured biofilms on both sides of the membrane: species of cocci, bacilli, and fusobacteria were recognizable in occasional settled vegetations. CONCLUSION: Since the amount of bacteria found was low, the improved impermeability of the d-PTFE membrane permitted the healing process to proceed uneventful and without signs of infection or inflammation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The infection of the graft site could lead to a failure of the socket preservation technique which could delay or compromise the rehabilitation following procedures. The use of d-PTFE can improve the bone regeneration thanks to its antimicrobial properties.