(TC65) Synthetic Bone Graft and Membrane Application After Apicoectomy: Case Series

Abstract: With an increase in apicoectomy success rates, its choice as a treatment option has gained traction in endodontics. The factors affecting the outcome of an apicoectomy include the extent, size, and position of the lesion. For patients with an apico-marginal lesion or a through-and-through lesion, bone grafts have been recommended. In periodontics and oral surgery, bone grafts and membranes have been successfully used to increase the healing rate and provide favorable outcomes in compromised conditions. The bone graft material is used to fill the lesion and the osteotomy site after the removal of infected tissue during the apicoectomy. The graft material provides a scaffold for new bone formation, encouraging natural regenerative capabilities. Over time, the graft material is gradually replaced by newly generated bone tissue, restoring the natural architecture of the jaw. There has been increased concern about disease transmission from animal-derived materials, leading to an increased use of synthetic bone graft materials among clinicians. Cytrans Granules (GC America), an FDA-approved synthetic carbonate apatite bone graft material free from animal-derived materials, have been used in dentistry; however, the clinical application in surgical endodontics is limited. In this case series (UNC-IRB:23-2011), a membrane was placed over the Cytrans Granules to protect and stabilize the graft material. The membrane is meant to prevent soft tissue infiltration at the surgical site and promote undisturbed regeneration of bone. A combination of a synthetic bone graft and a membrane after an apicoectomy may increase the amount of healing and reduce the risk of complications.