Non-Resorbable Membrane: How Long Do I Wait?

Dr. K asks:
After you place a bone graft, how long do you leave in sutures in for non-resorbable membrane? How long do you leave in the non-resorbable membrane itself? What clinical indicators should I use to know when to remove the sutures and the membrane?

3 Comments on Non-Resorbable Membrane: How Long Do I Wait?

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Carlos Boudet, DDS
4/26/2010
You normally remove sutures after ten days. As for the membrane,it depends on whether you obtained complete primary closure of the surgical site or have some membrane exposed as in the case of the Cytoplast PTFE membrane for socket preservation grafting. If complete closure is obtained and the membrane is not exposed, leave it until you reenter the site for implant placement. Also, if it becomes exposed, it is wise to remove it to avoid infection of the graft. If for socket preservation, they recommend removing it in 3 to 4 weeks to allow for re-epithelialization for 2 to 3 more weeks. Resorbable membranes have become more popular than non-resorbable for their ease of use. Good Luck!
Dr. Shalash
4/28/2010
3-4 weeks should be ok. If the membrane becomes infected it should be removed immediately.
Marie
3/2/2018
Had two wisdom teeth removed Aug 2016. This year still dull pain upper one. Earaches daily. Thought to have sinus infection. Put on antibiotics twice. No help! Went back to regular dentist because gum was swollen and sore and something sticking out of gum. Dentist sent me back to oral surgeon right away. Come to find out removal of membrane was somehow overlooked.!! He then pulled it out. New problem afterwards!! Went to ent because now I not only had pain but loss of hearing! All this from wisdom teeth removal and leaving membrane in over a year to become infected?? Now am considering hearing aids!

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