The Trouser Technique: A Novel Approach for Peri-Implant Soft Tissue Augmentation
<b>Background/Objectives</b>: Peri-implant mucosa plays a key role in both peri-implant health and aesthetics. Differences in contour and color between implants and natural teeth can negatively affect patient satisfaction, while soft tissue deficiency may lead to complications such as peri-implantitis. Peri-implant plastic surgery aims to improve these conditions. The objective of this study is to describe the trouser-shaped connective tissue graft technique designed to enhance vestibular and interproximal peri-implant tissue volume in a single surgical procedure, and to assess its effectiveness and morbidity. <b>Methods</b>: Ten patients requiring soft tissue augmentation in edentulous areas prior to delayed implant placement were selected. Intraoral scanning was performed before and 6 months after treatment to evaluate tissue thickness gain. <b>Results</b>: Significant soft tissue volume gain was observed at both the coronal (mean: 2.74 mm with a 95% confidence interval of 2.21-3.26 mm) and vestibular (mean: 2.79 mm with a 95% confidence interval of 2.24-3.35 mm) levels in all analyzed positions (<i>p</i> < 0.001). The procedure exhibited low morbidity, with minimal complications and discomfort reported by the patients. <b>Conclusions</b>: The trouser-shaped connective tissue graft technique is effective in increasing peri-implant soft tissue. It allows for vestibular and interproximal tissue augmentation in a single procedure, minimizing tissue contraction and morbidity. This technique could be a predictable and minimally invasive alternative for managing volume deficiencies in peri-implant tissues, particularly in aesthetic areas.
Authors
- Carla Fons‐Badal (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1483-0000)
- María Fernanda Solá Ruiz (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7946-6932)
- Jorge Alonso Pérez‐Barquero (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7275-0199)
- Rubén Agustín‐Panadero (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2757-6619)
- P Pavón
- Natalia Pérez-Rostoll
Institutions
- Universitat de València (ES)
- Universidad de Sevilla (ES)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Journal of Clinical Medicine
- Published
- 2025-07-14
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14144974
- Citations
- 1
- Primary Topic
- Dental Implant Techniques and Outcomes
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 1.79
Funders
- Universitat de València