Estimation of GCF and salivary levels of NT-proBNP in systemically healthy subjects with severe chronic periodontitis before and after periodontal flap surgery

Purpose: The aim of the study was to estimate and compare the Saliva and GCF levels of NT-proBNP in systemically healthy subjects with severe chronic periodontitis before and after periodontal flap surgery. Materials and Methods: Twenty subjects were selected and divided into two groups based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Healthy Controls: 10 periodontally and systemically healthy subjects. Presurgery Group: 10 systemically healthy subjects with severe chronic generalized periodontitis. Postsurgery Group included Presurgery Group subjects who will undergo periodontal flap surgery. After the periodontal parameters were measured, GCF and saliva samples were collected. Postsurgery Group subjects underwent periodontal flap surgery and both periodontal parameters and GCF and saliva levels were reassessed after 6 months. Results: Presurgery Group showed a higher mean value of plaque index, modified gingival index, probing pocket depth and clinical attachment level when compared to Healthy Controls and it was found to decrease after periodontal flap surgery (Postsurgery Group). Intergroup comparison (Presurgery Group vs Postsurgery Group) of the mean difference of salivary NT-proBNP was found to be statistically significant. GCF levels of NT-proBNP also decreased after periodontal flap surgery but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: NT pro-BNP levels were found to be higher in periodontitis group as compared to the controls. The levels decreased following surgical periodontal therapy, elucidating the role of periodontal treatment on the expression of NT-proBNP as a salivary and GCF marker. NT-proBNP could serve as a potential biomarker for periodontitis in saliva and GCF in future.