Usefulness of the subepithelial connective tissue pedicled palatal flap in alveolar reconstruction: A report of case series

The purpose of this case series report was to describe the subepithelial connective tissue pedicled palatal flap technique, its indications, and its efficacy in closure of alveolar ridge reconstruction. The present case series consisted of all 11 consecutive subjects who underwent a ridge augmentation with biomaterials or with bone grafts. Furthermore, in other cases were placed immediate or delayed implants. All cases were closed with a subepithelial connective tissue pedicled palatal flap reconstruction in our private dental clinic between 2014 and 2020. The main advantages of this flap are that the donor site remains primarily covered, the soft tissue volume at the recipient site is increased, and there is good integration of the graft because the blood supply of the flap comes directly from the base of the pedicle. All cases exhibited an increase in soft tissue height and width after 6 months and primary closure was successful. This case series suggests that the subepithelial connective tissue pedicled palatal flap may be useful for moderate vertical and horizontal augmentation in the recipient site.