Anorganic bovine matrix/P-15 "flow" in the treatment of periodontal defects: Case series with 12 months of follow-up

Background: Nowadays there is a trend in developing biologic modalities that may enhance wound healing of specific sites. In this regard, a cell-binding activity of type I collagen provided by a synthetic peptide (P-15) was incorporated in a scaffold (anorganic bovine matrix [ABM]) to facilitate the attachment, migration, and differentiation of cells. This case series describes a surgical protocol for the placement of ABM/P-15 "flow" during regenerative procedures. Methods: Wide periodontal defects were treated with sulcular incisions preserving the papillae, full-thickness flap reflection, granulation tissue debridement, mechanical and chemical root surface treatment, placement of the ABM/P-15 "flow," and wound-closure sutures. Weekly, and then monthly, deplaquing was performed until the 12-month postoperative recall, in which the clinical parameters were reevaluated. Results: Significant clinical changes, including probing depth reduction and relative clinical attachment level gain, were achieved after the 12-month period. The radiographs demonstrated increase in radiopacity when compared to those taken initially, suggesting hard tissue improvements. Conclusions: The topography of the defects described here could be understood as a challenge for regeneration, once the previous breakdown of the supporting tissues had diminished the source of cells for the healing process and reduced the number of residual walls to retain the graft material. Thus, it seems that the ABM/P-15 "flow" contributed to the clinical success achieved. Based on this result, ABM/P-15 "flow" could be a useful and beneficial material for the treatment of periodontal defects.