Flapless application of enamel matrix derivative in periodontal retreatment: a multicenter randomized feasibility trial

AIM: To investigate the potential benefit of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) as adjunct to re-instrumentation of residual pockets persisting after steps 1 and 2 of periodontal therapy.MATERIAL & METHODS: 44 adult patients participated in a multicenter feasibility randomized clinical trial with split-mouth design. They had presented at re-evaluation after initial non-surgical periodontal therapy (steps 1 and 2 of periodontal therapy) for generalized periodontitis with at least 2 teeth with residual probing pocket depths (PPD) ≥ 5 and ≤ 8 mm, with bleeding on probing (BOP). Two teeth with similar PPD were randomized to receive re-instrumentation either with (test) or without (control) adjunctive flapless administration of EMD. Differences in the changes of PPD and BOP from baseline to 6 and 12 months were analyzed, and the frequencies of pocket closure (PPD ≤ 4 mm and no BOP) compared.RESULTS: For the primary outcome "change of mean PPD after 6 months" a significant additional benefit of 0.79 ± 1.3 mm (p < 0.0001) could be observed for the test group. At 12 months, this difference could be maintained (0.85 ± 1.1 mm; p < 0.0001). The frequency of pocket closure in the test group was 69% at 6 and 80% at 12 months and significantly higher than in the control group with 34% and 42%, respectively (p < 0.01).CONCLUSION: The results of the present feasibility study indicate a benefit of adjunctive EMD during non-surgical retreatment (step 3 of periodontal therapy) of residual deep pockets.