Blood Supply of Human Gingiva Following Periodontal Surgery: A Fluorescein Angiographic Study

Abstract

This study demonstrates changes in the gingival vascular supply of humans following various periodontal surgical procedures. A special system was used to photograph circulatory changes following an i.v. injection of sodium fluorescein to visualize blood supply. The results of this study suggest that the following concepts are important in the design of periodontal flaps. 1. Flaps should be broad enough at their base to include major gingival vessels. 2. A flap's length to width ratio should not exceed 2:1. 3. Minimal tension should be produced by suturing techniques and the tissue should be managed gently during the surgical procedure. 4. Partial thickness flap preparations to cover avascular areas should not be too thin so that more blood vessels are included in them. 5. The apical portion of periodontal flaps should be full thickness when possible.