Evaluation of gingival blood flow by the use of laser Doppler flowmetry following periodontal surgery. A pilot study

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the applicability of laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) in recording the gingival blood flow following periodontal surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Five patients suffering from advanced chronic generalized periodontitis were included in the study. After completion of basic periodontal therapy, full-mouth plaque score, bleeding on probing, gingival recession and clinical attachment level were recorded. The upper anterior areas with a pocket probing depth of 6 mm or more were treated with an access flap. LDF recordings were performed in both the buccal and palatal aspect of the operated areas with the aid of an individual acrylic stent at the day of the surgery, prior to local anaesthesia, 3 min following anaesthesia, immediately after the operation and at days 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 15, 30 and 60 following operation. RESULTS: Overall, the blood flow decreased immediately following anaesthesia and remained in lower values compared to baseline immediately following operation. The gingival blood flow presented an overall increase in comparison to baseline values until the 7th day following surgery at the buccal and palatal interdental sites, as well as at the alveolar mucosa sites. By the 15th day, as well as at the following observation periods of 30 and 60 days, the gingival blood flow values at the palatal and alveolar mucosa sites were very similar to baseline. Increased blood flow changes were observed at 30 and 60 days following operation at the buccal interdental sites. CONCLUSION: The results of the present pilot study suggest that the LDF might present clinical applicability in recording changes in gingival blood flow following periodontal surgery.