Comparison of recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor-BB plus beta tricalcium phosphate and a collagen membrane to subepithelial connective tissue grafting for the treatment of recession defects: a case series.

When mixed with an osteoconductive scaffold, recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor (rhPDGF-BB), a potent wound-healing protein, has been shown to promote clinical attachment gain, radiographic bone fill, and regeneration of the periodontium. This human case series evaluated the clinical outcome of rhPDGF with beta tricalcium phosphate (3-TCP) and a collagen membrane in the treatment of recession-type defects. The control was the clinical gold standard for root coverage: the subepithelial connective tissue graft (CTG). Seven patients with recession defects > or = 3 mm in contralateral quadrants of the maxilla, excluding molars, were treated in this series. Patients were followed postoperatively, and healing was evaluated at 8, 16, and 24 weeks, with recession depth as the primary outcome measure. This case series revealed a favorable tissue response to rhPDGF-BB + beta-TCP and a collagen membrane and comparable clinical outcomes to CTG, warranting a controlled clinical trial of greater magnitude.