Sutureless gingival grafting

Abstract Suturing a gingival graft is often the most time-consuming stage of the grafting procedure, especially in regions of difficult access. Previously, it has been suggested that a combination of adhesive cellophane and cyanoacrylate may be used to immobilise the graft without suturing. The technique presented here attempts to simplify further sutureless grafting with the following modifications:

• – Bandage tape is used instead of adhesive cellophane.
• – The tape is not placed on the teeth but on the attached gingiva on either side of the graft site.
• – The use of cyanoacrylate is discarded.

The success of the procedure depends on complete haemostasis as any moisture will prevent the tape from adhering to the gingiva. Inherent advantages of sutureless grafting accomplished with the use of bandage tape are:

• – The graft lies flat on the recipient site and is kept under slight pressure by the tape.
• – Minimal blood clot is present between the graft and the recipient site.
• – The “wick” effect of the sutures is eliminated.
• – The chair side time is greatly reduced.
• – A shorter appointment and no sutures to remove imply less discomfort for the patient.

The technique is contraindicated should the patient present an allergic background to bandage tape.