NL Journal of Dentistry and Oral Sciences
(ISSN: 3049-1053)

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Comparative Evaluation of Effectiveness of Pinhole Surgical Technique Versus Coronally Advanced Flap with PRF as an Adjunct in the Management of Gingival Recession Defect- A Randomised Controlled Clinical Trial

Author(s) : Meghna Jassi, Navneet Kaur*, Gurpreet Kaur.
DOI : 10.71168/NDO.03.02.146

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Abstract

Introduction: The primary goal of periodontal therapy is to ensure the long-term health and functionality of the dentition while addressing aesthetic concerns. Modern oral therapy emphasizes preserving existing structures over replacing them, aligning with the minimally invasive surgery (MIS) approach. Aesthetic considerations, such as the management of exposed roots visible during smiling, have gained prominence as patients increasingly prioritize their aesthetic appearance. Among the advancements in mucogingival therapy, the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST), introduced by John Chao, has emerged as a transformative procedure for managing marginal tissue recession (MTR), particularly Miller’s Class I and II cases. Studies in the literature have shown 94% mean defect reduction with PST, highlighting its effectiveness and predictable clinical outcomes. PST stands out for its simplicity, patient comfort, and reliable aesthetic results, making it a promising innovation in periodontal plastic surgery. Aim and Objectives: 1. To assess the effectiveness of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) used in the Pinhole Surgical Technique in comparison with the Coronally Advanced Flap for the management of gingival recession defects 2. To compare the clinical outcomes of the Pinhole Surgical Technique and Coronally Advanced Flap with respect to recession depth, recession width, keratinized gingival width, and gingival thickness. Materials and Methods: Twenty patients within the age range of 30–50 years, presenting with Class I or Class II gingival recession, were randomly recruited and divided into two groups with 10 patients in each group: Group 1 (test group) included patients treated with the Pinhole Surgical Technique along with placement of platelet-rich fibrin, while Group 2 (Control Group): included patients treated with Coronally advanced flap surgery with a placement of Platelet rich fibrin. Recession depth (RD), recession width (RW), width of keratinized gingiva (WKT), probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment level (CAL) were measured at baseline and 3 months postoperatively. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of width of keratinized gingiva (WKG), probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment level (CAL) at baseline and after 3 months. Conclusion: The findings suggest that both the Pinhole Surgical Technique combined with PRF and the Coronally Advanced Flap with PRF are effective treatment modalities for Miller’s Class I and II gingival recession defects. Keywords: Pinhole Surgical Technique, Coronally Advanced Flap, Gingival Recession, Platelet rich Fibrin, recession defect, Minimal invasive technique.

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