The Free Rotated Papilla Autograft: A New Bilaminar Grafting Procedure for the Coverage of Multiple Shallow Gingival Recessions

T he aim of this clinical pilot study is to evaluate the possibility and, from a statistical point of view, the predictability of a new mucogingival technique. The purpose of this surgical procedure is to cover the exposed buccal root surface with less than 5 mm clinical probing attachment loss either in corono‐apical or mesio‐distal aspects. This surgical procedure is particularly indicated in either single or multiple gingival recessions with perfectly preserved mesial and distal interproximal osseous crests, and with a papillary dimension not inferior to the defect which needs to be treated. A sharp incision is performed at a 90° angle to the vestibule, following the mucogingival line. A sharp dissection is accomplished to create a partial thickness envelope flap on the underlying alveolar mucosa. The epithelium from the facial aspect of the papilla is debrided with a full thickness approach, the facial papillary tissue is removed from the underlying tissue bed. The papilla is then reversed in such a way that the base of the papilla is at the cemento‐enamel junction (CEJ) and the apex is at the base of the gingival recession area. The papilla is then sutured in place and completely covered by a coronally displaced partial thickness flap. The results obtained either as root coverage, or as an aesthetic result, may be considered positive. This procedure has the decided advantage of a single surgical site, avoiding any palatal patient discomfort, good color compatibility with adjacent tissue, and healing by primary intention. J Periodontol 1996;67:1016–1024 .