Evaluation of HTR polymer (Bioplant HTR) as a bone graft material in the treatment of interproximal vertical bony defects: a clinical and radiological study

Abstract

Background and objectives: Bone grafting is the most common form of regenerative therapy. Several bone substitutes have been used in clinical periodontal therapy to encourage bone formation. The present study has been undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of hard tissue replacement polymer (Bioplant HTR) as a bone graft material in the treatment of interproximal vertical bony defects in human beings, both clinically and radiologically.

Materials and methods: Five chronic periodontitis patients were selected with 16 sites assigned randomly into control (open debridement alone) and experimental (open flap debridement plus Bioplant HTR) groups. Clinical measurements like plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival margin position (GMP) assessment was done at 0, 3 and 6 months and radiographic assessment at 0 and 6 month. Statistical analysis was performed using Wilcoxon's signed Rank test and Mann-whitney U-test.

Results: There were statistically no significant (P=1.00) changes in Plaque index and Gingival Index scores in both the groups from baseline to six months post surgery. Statistically significant (P<0.05) reduction in Probing Pocket Depth was seen on comparison between the groups. In relation to the hard tissue changes, significant results were seen with respect to change in alveolar crest and percentage of original defect resolved. Comparison of results from six to 12 months following similar treatments showed no significant differences or advantages to having a clinical evaluation period longer than 6 months post surgically (Yukna 1999).

Interpretation and conclusion: Bioplant HTR material is a biocompatible, easy to handle and a beneficial grafting material for the treatment of periodontal osseous defects.