Gli espansori tissutali: identificazione, principi e indicazioni cliniche

Objectives

Review surgical devices already introduced in plastic-reconstructive surgery in the field of dental care, i.e. tissue expanders.

Materials and methods

Expanders have been used in oral surgery for several years to address the problem of soft tissue management in bone regeneration techniques. Expanders with valve and idrogel self-inflating were identified. Features, advantages, disadvantages, and directions to use them were described.

Results

Several animal studies suggested a sub-periosteal placement of the device, whereas only one study on human suggested an over-periosteal position. There are controversial opinions about bone resorption associated with them.

Conclusions

Tissues expanders can be a valuable aid in the management of soft tissues; however, attention is required because of the considerable number of complications.