Patient Outcomes Following Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft and Free Gingival Graft Procedures

TLDR: Compared patient-based outcomes for CTGs and FGGs: proportion of subjects reporting pain in the palate at 3 days was significantly greater for FGG (P <0.05) and there were no significant intergroup differences at 3 weeks.

Abstract: Background: Subepithelial connective tissue grafts (CTGs) and free gingival grafts (FGGs) are common periodontal procedures with similar indications; however, they may differ regarding patient outcomes. Reports on postoperative periodontal patient outcomes are limited. The aim of this observational trial was to compare patient-based outcomes for CTGs and FGGs.Methods: Patients who received CTG or FGG completed postoperative questionnaires at 3 days and 3 weeks to assess pain, number of analgesic pills taken, and number of days pills were taken. Postoperative pain was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS).Results: Twenty-three subjects (12 CTGs and 11 FGGs) completed the study. Differences between CTG and FGG groups in VAS pain scores at 3 days did not reach statistical significance. The proportion of subjects reporting pain in the palate at 3 days was significantly greater for FGG (P <0.05). There were no significant intergroup differences at 3 weeks. For the FGG group, 3-week VAS pain scores were le...