implants - international magazine of oral implantology

meetings I own studies in which they compared autologous grafts with biomaterials such as the porcine colla- gen matrix Geistlich Mucograft®. The matrix is not cross-linked and consists of type-one and type- three collagen. It has a bilayer structure, with the compact structure providing protection, allowing its usage in both closed and open integrative heal- ing processes. The spongy structure stabilises the blood clot and facilitates the ingrowth of cells and sprouting of blood vessels. The data Dr Schlee and Prof Sculean presented show that autologous grafts and the collagen ma- trix yield comparable results. Although the auto- loguous grafts are the gold standard for recession coverage, the advantages of the tissue substitute material are obvious: patients profit from reduced pain and swelling because none of their own tissue needstoberemovedandtheoperationtimeisdras- tically diminished. Other speakers also compared autologuous grafts to tissue substitute materials—for indica- tions like thickening of keratinized tissue, ridge preservation and vestibuloplasty. _Plenty of room for practical training In soft tissue management, therapeutic success strongly depends on the practitioner’s expertise. Thus it is important for him or her to know the ma- terial well and to practice the application correctly. The speakers pointed out that the collagen matrix should best be used in a dry state and should be su- tured carefully, if at all. Four workshops and an in- teractive forum in the afternoon offered plenty of roomfortraining,discussionsandexperienceswith new techniques and materials. At the very site of earlier political discussions, there were now heated debates on the importance of "morphotype” in the choice of therapy and optimal peri-implantitis treatment.Therewas,however,anagreementwhen itcametoassessingthesymposium:itwasarealin- spiration for everyday practice. The next International Osteology Symposium will take place from May 2–4 in Monaco—save the date!_ I 43implants3_2012