Open flap debridement using microsurgical loupes and modified widman flap approach - A case series

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of multifactorial origin resulting in pocket formation, loss of attachment, gingival recession, bone loss, mobility and eventually loss of tooth. The use of specifically designed microsurgical instruments aids in achieving clinical outcomes with increased accuracy, reduced fatigue, improved motor skills, minimal soft tissue trauma and hence reduced discomfort post operatively. This case series envisages the comparison of clinical outcomes following Open Flap Debridement (OFD) with and without magnifying loupes using Modified Widman flap approach. Case series: Five patients diagnosed with chronic generalised periodontitis having 10 sites with similar periodontal defects in contralateral quadrants (3 maxillary and 2 mandibular) were selected for this case series. Quadrants were randomly assigned to the microsurgical or conventional group. The results of this case series showed that the use of microsurgical approach had superior results in terms of early wound healing and patient comfort compared to conventional surgical approach. Conclusion: Thus, utilisation of microsurgical approach results in enhanced outcomes.