Whale's tail technique: A case series

Autologous platelet-rich derivatives along with alloplastic bone substitute in the management of complex perio-endo cases

Combined endodontic periodontal lesion is one of the most challenging dental conditions as making a definite diagnosis and henceforth treatment plan is a daunting task. The prognosis of complex lesion involving both endodontic and periodontic components is complex, but success rate can be improved with regenerative therapies. However, there is paucity of literature regarding its effectiveness in the clinical scenario as only few case reports have been documented in literature for the use of platelet-rich derivatives in regenerative osseous surgery requiring both endodontic and periodontal treatment. We are hereby presenting three cases requiring both endo and perio treatment. The first two cases involve mandibular first molar and maxillary first molar, respectively. The third case involves maxillary central incisor. In all the cases, first, endodontic treatment was initiated, then open flap curettage along with alloplastic bone substitutes was done. Platelet-rich fibrin and platelet-rich plasma were used along with. Three of the treated cases showed significant improvement radiographically and clinically. There was gain in clinical attachment, reduction in probing depth, and radiographic bone fill. Autologous platelet-rich derivative can be used in combination with alloplastic bone substitute for the management of endo-perio cases. Further long-term studies are needed to explore the clinical effectiveness of platelet-rich derivatives and predicting the probability of success of periodontal therapy.

Surgical management of wide intrabony defect underlying midline diastema using Whale's tail flap technique: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION

Management of wide midline diastemas accompanying an underlying osseous defect is cumbersome which sometimes yields unpredictable results. However, regenerative therapy of these highly aesthetic zones using a Whale's tail flap technique obtains a maximum papilla fill after placement of the bone graft. This case report illustrated the utilisation of Whale's tail technique of flap for a large interdental defect.

CASE PRESENTATION

A young healthy 31-year-old male patient presented with maxillary midline diastema. Probing depth of 6 mm was also noted over the mesial aspect of the same teeth with localised osseous defect radiographically which lead to a diagnosis of localized chronic periodontitis in relation to those teeth. A Whale's tail technique flap for papilla preservation was performed together with a regenerative procedure using bone graft and GTR membrane.

DISCUSSION

Midline diastema is a common reported complaint in dentistry due to both aesthetic and functional reasons. Following the treatment, 12 months postoperatively, patient had a probing depth reduction of 3 mm and a gain in clinical attachment of 2 mm. The surgical technique allowed regeneration of wide intrabony defects involving the maxillary anterior teeth with notable interdental diastemas.

CONCLUSION

This lead to significant improvement of the hard and soft tissue contour as well as it recreated a functional reattachment which was documented up to 12 months postoperatively.