Edlan-Mejchar Procedure: Enhancing Complete Denture Retention

The retention, stability, and function of a complete denture require the presence of adequate width of attached keratinized tissue and vestibular depth. Pre-prosthetic surgical procedures are performed to fulfil these requirements for long-term success. The Edlan-Mejchar vestibuloplasty technique addresses challenges posed by mandibular ridge atrophy and insufficient vestibular depth in edentulous patients. This case report details the successful application of the Edlan-Mejchar procedure in a 58-year-old female patient referred for vestibular deepening to facilitate complete denture adaptation and retention. The preoperative evaluation revealed a severely resorbed mandibular ridge with a shallow vestibule. A split-thickness mucosal flap was repositioned inferiorly at the base of the vestibule, and the raised periosteum was sutured onto the lip mucosa to enhance vestibular depth and keratinized mucosa. Postoperative care included antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and dietary modifications, with follow-up showing improved vestibular depth. The technique highlights the importance of adequate vestibular depth for functional denture retention. The Edlan-Mejchar procedure is effective in increasing keratinized mucosa and enhancing denture stability and patient comfort. The limitations of this procedure include the technique-sensitive nature of the surgery and its application in patients with systemic conditions affecting wound healing. This case report reaffirms the Edlan-Mejchar technique as a reliable, functional, and aesthetic solution for addressing soft tissue deficiencies in edentulous patients. We achieved a 6 mm gain in the keratinized attached mucosa and a deepened vestibule, which will ultimately help in denture stability and retention.