Evaluation of the Effects of Injectable Platelet-Rich Fibrin and Hyaluronic Acid Treatments, Administered in Addition to Free Gingival Graft Therapy, on Clinical Healing.

Overview

The purpose of this clinical trial is to evaluate the effects of injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) and hyaluronic acid (HA) gel on clinical healing and graft shrinkage when used in addition to Free Gingival Graft (FGG) surgery. The study involves patients with gingival recession and insufficient keratinized tissue. Participants will be randomly divided into three groups: FGG with i-PRF application, FGG with HA gel application, Conventional FGG alone (Control group). The main goal is to compare the amount of graft shrinkage and evaluate clinical wound healing parameters between these groups over a 3-month follow-up period.

Gingival recession and inadequate keratinized tissue are common mucogingival problems that can compromise periodontal health. Free gingival graft (FGG) therapy is considered the gold standard for increasing keratinized tissue; however, dimensional shrinkage of the graft during the healing process remains a significant clinical challenge. The survival and success of the graft depend heavily on rapid revascularization. This randomized controlled clinical trial aims to investigate whether the adjunctive use of biological agents can minimize graft shrinkage and enhance soft tissue healing. All eligible patients will initially receive non-surgical Phase 1 periodontal therapy, including professional plaque removal and oral hygiene instructions. During the surgical phase, a partial-thickness recipient bed will be prepared in the mandibular incisor region. A free gingival graft of approximately 1 to 1.5 mm thickness will be harvested from the palatal donor site. Depending on the randomization assignment: In the first experimental group, the harvested FGG will be hydrated in injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF), which is obtained from the patient's own venous blood via centrifugation, prior to being sutured to the recipient bed. In the second experimental group, the FGG will be hydrated in a 0.8% hyaluronic acid (HA) gel before fixation. In the control group, the FGG will be applied and sutured conventionally without the use of any additional biological agents. Following graft fixation, a periodontal dressing will be applied to protect the recipient site, and a custom surgical stent combined with a hemostatic sponge will be used to stabilize the palatal donor site. Patients will be prescribed postoperative medications (antibiotics, analgesics, and antibacterial mouthwash) and advised on a soft diet. Standardized clinical photographs and digital image analysis software will be utilized to accurately measure graft dimensional changes during the follow-up period.