Clinical application of guided tissue regeneration to implant therapy

Abstract

The first report on guided tissue regeneration (GTR) was published by Nyman et al. in 1982. They found that the ability of the periodontal ligament cells to form new attachment manifests itself only provided that epithelial cells, gingival connective tissue cells and bone cells are prevented from occupying the wound area adjacent to the root during the initial phase of healing. Since that time the GTR method has been used as a treatment for periodontal disease to create new attachment. In 1988 Dahlin et al. reported tissue regeneration in rats. They concluded that, "The results obtained demonstrate that a mechanical hindrance to connective tissue proliferation into a bone defect can be of profound importance for unimpeded bone healing. "Subsequently GTR was applied to implant therapy in humans. Originally implant therapy was restricted by anatomical considerations, such as the maxillary sinus and the mandibular canal. Recognition of the benefits of implant therapy has led to increased demand for this treatment. In the absence of GTR, treatments such as bone grafts were required. Although there have been continual improvements in the materials used, the surgical procedures are not easy. Future improvements will lead to increased application of GTR.