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Schluckstörungen sind häufig Folge von Kopf-Hals-Tumorerkrankungen, deren Prävalenz bis zu 88% aufgeführt wird. Je früher eine Dysphagie diagnostiziert wird, desto geringer ist das Risiko für Sekundärkomplikationen, was die Anzahl "teurer" Fälle senkt und den Patienten die Möglichkeit auf eine zügige Restitution von Lebensqualität bietet! Diese Fakten unterstreichen die Notwendigkeit eines klinischen Behandlungspfades, nach dem die Diagnose auf der Grundlage eines standardisierten und überprüfbaren Workflows erstellt wird. Da die zügige, optimale Behandlung von Dysphagien einen multidisziplinären Zugang erfordert, wurde im Klinikum der Goethe-Universität Frankfurt/Main ein interdisziplinärer Arbeitskreis für Schluckstörungen (IAS) gegründet, der sich aus Phoniatrie, Klinik für HNO und MKG sowie Radiologie zusammensetzt. Im Rahmen eines zweimal wöchentlich durchgeführten Onkoboards, werden zusammen mit der Strahlentherapie und Onkologie, Risikopatienten herauskristallisiert und onkologische Therapieoptionen u.a. im Hinblick auf funktionelles Outcome diskutiert. Bereits präoperativ werden entsprechende Patienten phoniatrisch aufgeklärt und ihre Schluckfunktion via endoskopischer Evaluation nach Langmore-Standard (FEES) untersucht. Ein systematisches Follow-up erfolgt via FEES wenige Tage und 4–6 Wochen postoperativ sowie nach adjuvanter Therapie. Pro Woche wurden so im vergangenen Jahr ca. 3–5 Patienten wöchentlich neu erfasst und über 80 Patienten im Verlauf untersucht und einer adäquaten Therapie zugeführt.
The purpose of this study consists of the identification of implantologic and prosthetic methods and techniques used in substance loss rehabilitation, associated with identifying the specific biomaterials in perfect accordance with each case particularities, without leaving aside the bone-tissue deficiency etiology. A representative number of clinical cases were selected, cases which are relevant for the chosen theme. The possibility of reconstructing the natural parameters of the edentulous alveolar ridge areas is various, starting with augmentation materials of the autogenous and heterograft type biomaterials(Bio-Oss, Grafton, Cerasorb si MBCP) including the mixing of these two types of biomaterials, and going to epitheses, which are the best choise for complex substance loss.
Introduction: In this article the personal study and life situation of parents who are also medical students at the Medical School of the Goethe University Frankfurt am Main is discussed. There is a special focus on the topics "studying with children" and "family-friendly university", which have been present in discussions about university development and in the daily life of academics, especially during the last decade. The workgroup "Individual Student Services" at the medical faculty at the Goethe University tries to meet the necessities of the individual study courses and to support the study success with a new counselling and student service concept.
Methods: The experience of parents studying medicine was recorded in semi-structured interviews (Date: April 2010), which were held as part of the sponsored pilot project on part-time medical studies ("Pilot Project Part-time Medical Studies"). Additionally, study results from the Medical School of the Goethe University Frankfurt am Main were integrated as well as a literature analysis.
Results: It was found that the teaching demands and support services, which have been suggested and needed for years now, have been partially implemented and are without sufficient support at the faculty level to date. Thus the current situation of medical students with children is still difficult and seems a big challenge for everyone involved.
Solution: As part of the "Individual Student Services" a new pilot project on part-time medical studies was established in November 2009. Only the use of new, unconventional and innovative ideas allows universities to adequately support the changing and heterogeneous student population and support them to successfully completing their medical studies.
Background: Computerized virtual patients (VP) have spread into many areas of healthcare delivery and medical education. They provide various advantages like flexibility in pace and space of learning, a high degree of teaching reproducibility and a cost effectiveness. However, the educational benefit of VP as an additive or also as an alternative to traditional teaching formats remains unclear. Moreover, there are no randomized-controlled studies that investigated the use of VP in a dental curriculum. Therefore, this study investigates VP as an alternative to lecturer-led small-group teaching in a curricular, randomized and controlled setting.
Methods: Randomized and controlled cohort study. Four VP cases were created according to previously published design principles and compared with lecturer-led small group teaching (SGT) within the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery clerkship for dental students at the Department for Cranio-, Oral and Maxillofacial Plastic Surgery, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany. Clinical competence was measured prior (T0), directly (T1) and 6 weeks (T2) after the intervention using theoretical tests and a self-assessment questionnaire. Furthermore, VP design was evaluated using a validated toolkit.
Results: Fifty-seven students (VP = 32; SGT = 25) agreed to participate in the study. No competence differences were found at T0 (p = 0.56). The VP group outperformed (p < .0001) the SGT group at T1. At T2 there was no difference between both groups (p = 0.55). Both interventions led to a significant growth in self-assessed competence. The VP group felt better prepared to diagnose and treat real patients and regarded VP cases as a rewarding learning experience.
Conclusions: VP cases are an effective alternative to lecture-led SGT in terms of learning efficacy in the short and long-term as well as self-assessed competence growth and student satisfaction. Furthermore, integrating VP cases within a curricular Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clerkship is feasible and leads to substantial growth of clinical competence in undergraduate dental students.
Background: To assess the influence of ridge preservation procedures on the healing of extraction sockets under antiresorptive therapy.
Material and Methods: A total of 10 Dutch Belted rabbits were randomly allocated to either the intravenous administration of amino‐bisphosphonate (zoledronic acid) (Za) (n = 5) or a negative control group (no Za [nZa]) (n = 5). At 6 months, the mandibular and maxillary molars were extracted and the four experimental sites randomly allocated to the following subgroups: (a) socket grafting using a collagen‐coated natural bone mineral (BOC) + primary wound closure, (b) coronectomy (CO), or (c) spontaneous healing + primary wound closure (SP). Za medication was continued for another 4 months. Histomorphometrical analyses considered, for example, crestal hard tissue closure of the extraction site (C) and mineralized tissue (MT) formation.
Results: Za‐SP was associated with an incomplete median C (31.76% vs 100% in nZa‐SP) and signs of bone arrosion along the confines of the socket. BOC had no major effects on increases in C and MT values in the Za group. CO commonly resulted in an encapsulation and partial replacement resorption of residual roots by MT without any histological signs of osteonecrosis.
Conclusions: (a) Za‐SP was commonly associated with a compromised socket healing and signs of osteonecrosis, (b) BOC had no major effect on socket healing in the Za group, and (c) CO at noninfected teeth might be a feasible measure for the prevention of a Za‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw.
Mastectomy in female-to-male transgender patients: A single-center 24-year retrospective analysis
(2019)
Background: Mastectomy in male transgender patients is an important (and often the first) step toward physical manhood. At our department, mastectomies in transgender patients have been performed for several decades.
Methods: Recorded data were collected and analyzed for all male transgender patients undergoing mastectomy over a period of 24 years at our department.
Results: In total, 268 gender-reassigning mastectomies were performed. Several different mastectomy techniques (areolar incision, n=172; sub-mammary incision, n=96) were used according to patients’ habitus and breast features. Corresponding to algorithms presented in the current literature, certain breast qualities were matched with a particular mastectomy technique. Overall, small breasts with marginal ptosis and good skin elasticity allowed small areolar incisions as a method of access for glandular removal. In contrast, large breasts and those with heavy ptosis or poor skin elasticity often required larger incisions for breast amputation. The secondary correction rate (38%) was high for gender reassignment mastectomy, as is also reflected by data in the current literature. Secondary correction frequently involved revision of chest wall recontouring, suggesting inadequate removal of the mammary tissue, as well as scar revision, which may reflect intense traction during wound healing (36%). Secondary corrections were performed more often after using small areolar incision techniques (48%) than after using large sub-mammary incisions (21%).
Conclusions: Choosing the suitable mastectomy technique for each patient requires careful individual evaluation of breast features such as size, degree of ptosis, and skin elasticity in order to maximize patient satisfaction and minimize secondary revisions.
Biomaterials are widely used in guided bone regeneration (GBR) and guided tissue regeneration (GTR). After application, there is an interaction between the host immune system and the implanted biomaterial, leading to a biomaterial-specific cellular reaction. The present review focuses on cellular reactions to numerous biomaterials in vivo with consideration of different implantation models and microenvironments in different species, such as subcutaneous implantation in mice and rats, a muscle model in goats and a femur model in rabbits. Additionally, cellular reactions to different biomaterials in various clinical indications within the oro-maxillofacial surgical field were considered. Two types of cellular reactions were observed. There was a physiological reaction with the induction of only mononuclear cells and a pathological reaction with the induction of multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs). Attention was directed to the frequently observed MNGCs and consequences of their appearance within the implantation region. MNGCs have different subtypes. Therefore, the present review addresses the different morphological phenotypes observed within the biomaterial implantation bed and discusses the critical role of MNGCs, their subtypes and their precursors as well as comparing the characteristics and differences between biomaterial-related MNGCs and osteoclasts. Polymeric biomaterials that only induced mononuclear cells underwent integration and maintained their integrity, while polymeric biomaterials that induced MNGCs underwent disintegration with material breakdown and loss of integrity. Hence, there is a question regarding whether our attention should be directed to alternative biological concepts, in combination with biomaterials that induce a physiological mononuclear cellular reaction to optimize biomaterial-based tissue regeneration.
Resorbable synthetic scaffolds are promising for different indications, espe- cially in the context of bone regeneration. However, they require additional biological components to enhance their osteogenic potential. In addition to different cell types, autologous blood-derived matrices offer many advantages to enhance the regenerative capacity of biomaterials. The present study aimed to analyze whether biologization of a PCL-mesh coated using differently centrifuged Platelet rich fibrin (PRF) matrices will have a positive influence on primary human osteoblasts activity in vitro. A polymeric resorbable scaffold (Osteomesh, OsteoporeTM (OP), Singapore) was combined with differently centrifuged PRF matrices to evaluate the additional influence of this biologization concept on bone regeneration in vitro. Peripheral blood of three healthy donors was used to gain PRF matrices centrifuged either at High (710× g, 8 min) or Low (44× g, 8 min) relative centrifugal force (RCF) according to the low speed centrifugation concept (LSCC). OP-PRF constructs were cultured with pOBs. POBs cultured on the uncoated OP served as a control. After three and seven days of cultivation, cell culture supernatants were collected to analyze the pOBs activity by determining the concentrations of VEGF, TGF-β1, PDGF, OPG, IL-8, and ALP- activity. Immunofluorescence staining was used to evaluate the Osteopontin expression of pOBs. After three days, the group of OP+PRFLow+pOBs showed significantly higher expression of IL-8, TGF-ß1, PDGF, and VEGF compared to the group of OP+PRFHigh+pOBs and OP+pOBs. Similar results were observed on day 7. Moreover, OP+PRFLow+pOBs exhibited significantly higher activity of ALP compared to OP+PRFHigh+pOBs and OP+pOBs. Immunofluorescence staining showed a higher number of pOBs adherent to OP+PRFLow+pOBs compared to the groups OP+PRFHigh+pOBs and OP+pOBs. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to investigate the osteoblasts activity when cultured on a PRF-coated PCL-mesh in vitro. The presented results suggest that PRFLow centrifuged according to LSCC exhibits autologous blood cells and growth factors, seem to have a significant effect on osteogenesis. Thereby, the combination of OP with PRFLow showed promising results to support bone regeneration. Further in vivo studies are required to verify the results and carry out potential results for clinical translation.
Background: Osteoinductive bone substitutes are defined by their ability to induce new bone formation even at heterotopic implantation sites. The present study was designed to analyze the potential osteoinductivity of two different bone substitute materials in caprine muscle tissue.
Materials and methods: One gram each of either a porous beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) or an hydroxyapatite/silicon dioxide (HA/SiO2)-based nanocrystalline bone substitute material was implanted in several muscle pouches of goats. The biomaterials were explanted at 29, 91 and 181 days after implantation. Conventional histology and special histochemical stains were performed to detect osteoblast precursor cells as well as mineralized and unmineralized bone matrix.
Results: Both materials underwent cellular degradation in which tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive osteoclast-like cells and TRAP-negative multinucleated giant cells were involved. The ß-TCP was completely resorbed within the observation period, whereas some granules of the HA-groups were still detectable after 180 days. Neither osteoblasts, osteoblast precursor cells nor extracellular bone matrix were found within the implantation bed of any of the analyzed biomaterials at any of the observed time points.
Conclusions: This study showed that ß-TCP underwent a faster degradation than the HA-based material. The lack of osteoinductivity for both materials might be due to their granular shape, as osteoinductivity in goat muscle has been mainly attributed to cylindrical or disc-shaped bone substitute materials. This hypothesis however requires further investigation to systematically analyze various materials with comparable characteristics in the same experimental setting.
Introduction: Over the last years, electronic cigarettes (ECs) have become more popular, particularly in individuals who want to give up smoking tobacco. The aim of the present study was to assess the influence of the different e-smoking liquids on the viability and proliferation of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts.
Method and materials: For this study six test solutions with components from ECs were selected: lime-, hazelnut- and menthol-flavored liquids, nicotine, propylene glycol, and PBS as control group. The fibroblasts were incubated up to 96 h with the different liquids, and cell viability was measured by using the PrestoBlue® reagent, the ATP detection and the migration assay. Fluorescence staining was carried out to visualize cell growth and morphology. Data were statistically analyzed by two-tailed one-way ANOVA.
Results: The cell viability assay showed that the proliferation rates of the cells incubated with nicotine or the various flavored liquids of the e-cigarettes were reduced in comparison to the controls, though not all reductions were statistically significant. After an incubation of 96 h with the menthol-flavored liquid the fibroblasts were statistically significant reduced (p < 0.001). Similar results were found for the detection of ATP in fibroblasts; the incubation with menthol-flavored liquids (p < 0.001) led to a statistically significant reduction. The cell visualization tests confirmed these findings.
Conclusion: Within its limits, the present in vitro study demonstrated that menthol additives of e-smoking have a harmful effect on human periodontal ligament fibroblasts. This might indicate that menthol additives should be avoided for e-cigarettes.
Introduction: ameloblastoma is a slow growing, painless odontogenic swelling which can attain sizes that result in severe deformities of the craniofacial complex. It is the most commonly encountered odontogenic tumor in Nigeria. Surgical intervention is currently the method of treatment; however identification of altered molecular pathways may inform chemotherapeutic potential. The Protein Patched homolog 1 (PTCH-1) is overexpressed in ameloblastoma. Also, mutation in the MDM2 gene can reduce the tumor suppressor function of p53 and promote ameloblastoma growth. No study however has characterized the molecular profile of African cases of ameloblastoma with a view to developing chemotherapeutic alternatives. The objective was to characterize the PTCH-1 genetic profile of Ameloblastoma in Nigerian patients as a first step in investigating its potential for chemotherapeutic intervention.
Methods: twenty-eight FFPE blocks of ameloblastoma cases from Nigerian patients were prepared for antibody processing to PTCH-1 (Polyclonal Anti-PTCH antibody ab39266) and MDM2 (Monoclonal Anti-MDM2 antibody (2A10) ab16895). Cytoplasmic brown staining was considered as positive for PTCH while nuclear staining was positive for MDM2.
Results: moderate and strong expressions for PTCH in ameloblast and stellate reticulum were 78.6% and 60.7% respectively. Only 3 (10.7%) cases expressed MDM2.
Conclusion: the importance of our study is that it supports, in theory, anti-PTCH/SHH chemotherapeutics for Nigerian ameloblastoma cases and also infers the possible additional use of anti-p53 agents.
Objective: To analyze Mucograft (MG), a recently introduced collagen matrix, in vitro and in vivo, and compare it with BioGide (BG), a well-established collagen membrane, as control.
Material and methods: A detailed analysis of the materials surface and ultra-structure was performed. Cellular growth patterns and proliferation rates of human fibroblasts on MG and BG were analyzed in vitro. In addition, the early tissue reaction of CD-1 mouse to these materials was analyzed by means of histological and histomorphometrical analysis.
Results: MG showed a three-fold higher thickness both in dry and wet conditions, when compared to BG. The spongy surface of BG significantly differed from that of MG. Cells showed a characteristic proliferation pattern on the different materials in vitro. Fibroblasts tended to proliferate on the compact layers of both collagens, with the highest values on the compact side of BG. In vivo, at day three both materials demonstrated good tissue integration, with a mononuclear cell sheet of fibroblasts on all surfaces, however, without penetrating into the materials.
Conclusions: The findings of this study showed that MG and BG facilitate cell proliferation on both of their surfaces in vitro. In vivo, these two materials induce a comparable early tissue reaction, while serving as cell occlusive barriers.
Introduction: The aim of this study was to ascertain whether the testing format of an OSPE (Objective Structured Practical Examination) in conservative dentistry (sixth semester) predicts the scores on the practical section of the state examination (11th semester) in the same subject. Taking general student profiles into consideration (score on the school-leaving exam [Abitur], score on the preliminary exam in dental medicine [Physikum], length of university study, cohorts, and sex), we also investigated if any correlations or differences exist in regard to the total and partial scores on the OSPE and the corresponding state examination.
Methods: Within the scope of this longitudinal retrospective study, exam-specific data spanning 11 semesters for dental students (N=223) in Frankfurt am Main were collected and analyzed. Statistical analysis was carried out by calculating Spearman rank correlations, partial correlations, Pearson’s correlation coefficients, and multiple regressions (SPSS Statistics 21, IBM Corporation, New York).
Results: The results show that the OSPE (Cronbach’s α=.87) correlates with level of success on the practical section of the state exam in conservative dentistry (p=.01, r=.17). Length of university study also emerged to correlate significantly with the state exam score (p=.001, r=.23). Together, these two variables contribute significantly to predicting the state exam score (p=.001, R2=.076). This was seen extensively among female students. It was also discovered that these female students had higher school-leaving exam scores than male students (F=6.09, p=.01, η2=.027), and that a significant correlation between scores on the Physikum (preliminary exam in dental medicine) and OSPE scores existed only for male students (r=.17, p=.01).
Conclusion: This study was able to demonstrate the predictive effect of a clinical OSPE regarding scores achieved on the state exam. Taking the limitations of this study into account, we are able to recommend using the OSPE testing format in the sixth semester during the clinical phase of dental study.
Einleitung: Ziel dieser Studie war es zu evaluieren, ob das Prüfungsformat einer OSPE (Objective Structured Practical Examination) durchgeführt im Fach Zahnerhaltungskunde (6. Fachsemester) den Studienerfolg im praktischen Teil des Staatsexamens (11. Fachsemester) im selben Fach prädiziert. Ferner sollte unter Berücksichtigung allgemeiner Angaben der StudienteilnehmerInnen (Abitursnote, Physikumsnote, Studiendauer, Kohorte und Geschlecht) analysiert werden, ob bezüglich der Gesamt- sowie Teilnoten der OSPE und der adäquaten Staatsexamensprüfung Zusammenhänge oder Unterschiede bestehen.
Methoden: Im Rahmen dieser longitudinalen, retrospektiven Studie wurden für einen Zeitraum von 11 Semestern prüfungsbezogene Daten von Studierenden (N=223) des Fachbereichs Zahnmedizin in Frankfurt am Main erhoben und untersucht. Für die statistische Auswertung der Daten wurden Spearman Rangkorrelationen, Partialkorrelationen, Korrelationskoeffizienten nach Pearson, und Multiple Regressionen (SPSS Statistics 21, IBM Corporation, New York) berechnet.
Ergebnisse: Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass OSPE (Cronbachs α=.87) mit dem Erfolg im praktischen Teil des Staatsexamens im Fach Zahnerhaltungskunde korreliert (p=.01, r=.17). Als eine weitere signifikante Korrelation mit der Examensleistung erwies sich die Dauer des Studiums (p=.001, r=.23). Gemeinsam leisten diese beiden Variablen einen signifikanten Beitrag zur Vorhersage der Examensnote (p=.001, R2=.076). Das zeigte sich im größeren Umfang bei weiblichen Studierenden. Zudem wurde festgestellt, dass diese bessere Abiturnoten als männliche Studierende aufweisen (F=6.09, p=.01, η2=.027) und dass es lediglich bei männlichen Studierenden eine signifikante Korrelation zwischen der Physikumsnote (Zahnärztliche Vorprüfung) und der OSPE-Benotung gab (r=.17, p=.01).
Schlussfolgerung: In der vorliegenden Untersuchung konnte der prädiktive Effekt einer klinischen OSPE auf die Prüfungsleistung im Staatsexamen gezeigt werden. Unter Berücksichtigung der Limitation der Studie empfiehlt sich aus unserer Sicht die Durchführung eines solchen Prüfungsformats im Rahmen des klinischen Studienabschnitts im 6. Semester im Fach Zahnmedizin.
Multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs) are frequently observed in the implantation areas of different biomaterials. The main aim of the present study was to analyze the long-term polarization pattern of the pro- and anti-inflammatory phenotypes of macrophages and MNGCs for 180 days to better understand their role in the success or failure of biomaterials. For this purpose, silk fibroin (SF) was implanted in a subcutaneous implantation model of Wistar rats as a model for biomaterial-induced MNGCs. A sham operation was used as a control for physiological wound healing. The expression of different inflammatory markers (proinflammatory M1: CCR-7, iNos; anti-inflammatory M2: CD-206, CD-163) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) and CD-68 were identified using immunohistochemical staining. The results showed significantly higher numbers of macrophages and MNGCs within the implantation bed of SF-expressed M1 markers, compared to M2 markers. Interestingly, the expression of proinflammatory markers was sustained over the long observation period of 180 days. By contrast, the control group showed a peak of M1 macrophages only on day 3. Thereafter, the inflammatory pattern shifted to M2 macrophages. No MNGCs were observed in the control group. To the best of our knowledge, this is study is the first to outline the persistence of pro-inflammatory MNGCs within the implantation bed of SF and to describe their long-term kinetics over 180 days. Clinically, these results are highly relevant to understand the role of biomaterial-induced MNGCs in the long term. These findings suggest that tailored physicochemical properties may be a key to avoiding extensive inflammatory reactions and achieving clinical success. Therefore, further research is needed to elucidate the correlation between proinflammatory MNGCs and the physicochemical characteristics of the implanted biomaterial.
Objective: To assess the influence of biphasic calcium phosphate materials with different surface topographies on bone formation and osseointegration of titanium implants in standardized alveolar ridge defects.
Materials and methods: Standardized alveolar ridge defects (6 × 6 mm) were created in the mandible of 8 minipigs and filled with three biphasic calcium phosphate materials (BCP1–3, 90% tricalcium phosphate/10% hydroxyapatite) with different surface properties (micro- and macroporosities) as well as a bovine-derived natural bone mineral (NBM) as a control. At 12 weeks, implants were placed into the augmented defects. After further 8 weeks of healing, dissected blocks were processed for histological analysis (e.g., mineralized (MT), residual bone graft material (BS), bone-to-implant contact (BIC)).
Results: All four biomaterials showed well-integrated graft particles and new bone formation within the defect area. MT values were comparable in all groups. BS values were highest in the NBM group (21.25 ± 13.52%) and markedly reduced in the different BCP groups, reaching statistical significance at BCP1-treated sites (9.2 ± 3.28%). All test and control groups investigated revealed comparable and statistically not significant different BIC values, ranging from 73.38 ± 20.5% (BCP2) to 84.11 ± 7.84% (BCP1), respectively.
Conclusion* All bone graft materials facilitated new bone formation and osseointegration after 12 + 8 weeks of healing.
Elevated tumor interstitial fluid pressure (TIFP) is a prominent feature of solid tumors and hampers the transmigration of therapeutic macromolecules, for example, large monoclonal antibodies, from tumor-supplying vessels into the tumor interstitium. TIFP values of up to 40 mm Hg have been measured in experimental solid tumors using two conventional invasive techniques: the wick-in-needle and the micropuncture technique. We propose a novel noninvasive method of determining TIFP via ultrasonic investigation with scanning acoustic microscopy at 30-MHz frequency. In our experimental setup, we observed for the impedance fluctuations in the outer tumor hull of A431-vulva carcinoma–derived tumor xenograft mice. The gain dependence of signal strength was quantified, and the relaxation of tissue was calibrated with simultaneous hydrostatic pressure measurements. Signal patterns from the acoustical images were translated into TIFP curves, and a putative saturation effect was found for tumor pressures larger than 3 mm Hg. This is the first noninvasive approach to determine TIFP values in tumors. This technique can provide a potentially promising noninvasive assessment of TIFP and, therefore, can be used to determine the TIFP before treatment approach as well to measure therapeutic efficacy highlighted by lowered TFP values.
Vismodegib, an inhibitor of the Hedgehog signaling pathway, is an approved drug for monotherapy in locally advanced or metastatic basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Data on combined modality treatment by vismodegib and radiation therapy, however, are rare. In the present study, we examined the radiation sensitizing effects of vismodegib by analyzing viability, cell cycle distribution, cell death, DNA damage repair and clonogenic survival in three-dimensional cultures of a BCC and a head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell line. We found that vismodegib decreases expression of the Hedgehog target genes glioma-associated oncogene homologue (GLI1) and the inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) Survivin in a cell line- and irradiation-dependent manner, most pronounced in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cells. Furthermore, vismodegib significantly reduced proliferation in both cell lines, while additional irradiation only slightly further impacted on viability. Analyses of cell cycle distribution and cell death induction indicated a G1 arrest in BCC and a G2 arrest in HNSCC cells and an increased fraction of cells in SubG1 phase following combined treatment. Moreover, a significant rise in the number of phosphorylated histone-2AX/p53-binding protein 1 (γH2AX/53BP1) foci in vismodegib- and radiation-treated cells was associated with a significant radiosensitization of both cell lines. In summary, these findings indicate that inhibition of the Hedgehog signaling pathway may increase cellular radiation response in BCC and HNSCC cells.
Background: Due to their increased precision, CAD/CAM generated bars (Computer-Aided Design/ Computer-Aided Manufacturing) are increasingly utilized in implant prosthodontics. For optimal clinical results, surface morphology should promote the integration of soft tissue while minimizing plaque and bacterial retention.
Objective: Despite their clinical use, only limited information on the biological and clinical surface quality of CAD/CAM milled bars is available. The aim of the study was therefore to characterize the surface topography of bars of different manufacturers based on the profilometric analysis and the need for manual post-processing in the laboratory.
Methods: A custom mandibular edentulous cast with four anterior implants was used as a reference cast and reproduced eight times. On each reproduction cast, corresponding scan flags were positioned and digitized. Acrylic 3D printed bar frameworks were produced and sent to the respective production center along with the digital files of the CAD bars for milling. In the course of profilometric analysis, all bars were examined in three critical Regions of Interest (ROI): Transmucosal, labial, basal. Sa and Ra values of each construction were determined. To evaluate the necessary refinishing time eight dental technicians macroscopically evaluated the bars by performing a subjective visual inspection. Kruskal-Wallis H-tests and Tukey and Kramer's post hoc tests were applied to detect differences between the samples.
Results: After profilometric examination, three specimens (Dentsply Sirona: ZDC; Straumann: ZST; CAMLOG: ZCC) demonstrated surface roughness values in the biological acceptable range (Sa 0.2-0.4 μm) in the transmucosal region and provided optimal conditions for a reliable soft tissue adaptation. The Ra measurements revealed values beyond the acceptable threshold in the transmucosal region for three bars (Straumann: ZST; Dentsply Sirona: ZDC; Amann Girrbach: LAC). Four bars (LAC: Amann Girrbach; ZBC: BEGO; Datron: LDC & LDT; Zirkonzahn: ZZC) needed undesirable extensive manual rework. The evaluation of quality and time for manual post-processing by dental technicians confirmed the measurement-based ranking of the bars.
Conclusion: It is desirable to define a clear roughness threshold for the clinical acceptance of transmucosal CAD/CAM generated surfaces. Clinical studies with profilometric data could help to further improve the surface quality of CAD/CAM milled bars and reduce the need for manual reworking time and effort.
Objective: The aim of this study was to retrospectively review the midface and orbital floor fractures treated at our institution with regard to epidemiological aspects, surgical treatment options and postoperative complications and discuss this data with the current literature. Study design: One thousand five hundred and ninety-four patients with midface and orbital fractures treated at the Department of Oral, Cranio-Maxillofacial and Facial Plastic Surgery of the Goethe University Hospital in Frankfurt (Germany) between 2007 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were evaluated by age, gender, etiology, fracture pattern, defect size, surgical treatment and complications. Results: The average patient age was 46.2 (± 20.8). Most fractures (37.5%) occurred in the age between 16 and 35. Seventy-two percent of patients were male while 28% were female. The most common cause of injury was physical assault (32.0%) followed by falls (30.8%) and traffic accidents (17.0%). The average orbital wall defect size was 297.9 mm2 (± 190.8 mm2). For orbital floor reconstruction polydioxanone sheets (0.15 mm 38.3%, 0.25 mm 36.2%, 0.5 mm 2.8%) were mainly used, followed by titanium meshes (11.5%). Reconstructions with the 0.15 mm polydioxanone sheets showed the least complications (p < 0.01, r = 0.15). Eighteen percent of patients who showed persistent symptoms and post-operative complications: 12.9% suffered from persistent hypoesthesia, 4.4% suffered from post-operative diplopia and 3.9% showed intra-orbital hematoma. Conclusion: Results of the clinical outcome in our patients show that 0.15 mm resorbable polydioxanone sheets leads to significantly less post-operative complications for orbital floor defects even for defects beyond the recommended 200 mm2.
Background: The high-oblique sagittal osteotomy (HOSO) is an alternative to a bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO). Due to its novelty, there are no long-term studies which have focused on describing the incidence and type of complications encountered in the post-operative follow-up. The aim of this retrospective study is to analyze patients operated on with this surgical technique and the post-operative complications encountered. Patient and methods: The electronic medical records of all patients treated with orthognathic surgery at the Department of Oral, Maxillofacial and Facial Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany, between the years 2009 and 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Results: A total of 116 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The cases operated on with the standard osteosynthesis (X, Y, and straight) showed a complication rate of 36.37% (n = 4/11). The cases operated on with the HOSO-dedicated plates (HOSO-DP) showed, in total, a complication rate of 6.67% (n = 7/105). The most common post-operative complication resulting from both fixation methods was a reduction in mouth opening and TMJ pain for 4.3%. During the first years of performing the surgery (2009–211), a variety of standard plates had material failure causing non-union or pseudarthrosis. No cases of material failure were observed in the cases operated on with the HOSO-DP. The statistical results showed a highly significant dependence of a reduction in OP-time over the years, when the HOSO was performed without additional procedures (R2 > 0.83, P < 0.0015). Conclusion: The rate of complications in the HOSO were shown to be comparable to the rate of complications from the BSSO reported in the literature. Moreover, the use of the ramus dedicated plate appears to provide enough stability to the bone segments, making the surgery safer. Clinical relevance: The HOSO needs to be considered by surgeons as an alternative to BSSO. Once the use of the HOSO-DP was established, the rate of complications and the operation time reduced considerably.
Background: The present study aimed to assess the three‐dimensional changes following soft tissue augmentation using free gingival grafts (FGG) at implant sites over a 3‐month follow‐up period.
Methods: This study included 12 patients exhibiting deficient keratinized tissue (KT) width (i.e., <2 mm) at the vestibular aspect of 19 implants who underwent soft tissue augmentation using FGG at second stage surgery following implant placement. Twelve implants were considered for the statistical analysis (n = 12). The region of interest (ROI) was intraorally scanned before surgery (S0), immediately post‐surgery (S1), 30 (S2) and 90 (S3) days after augmentation. Digital scanned files were used for quantification of FGG surface area (SA) and converted to standard tessellation language (STL) format for superimposition and evaluation of thickness changes between the corresponding time points. FGG shrinkage (%) in terms of SA and thickness was calculated between the assessed time points.
Results: Mean FGG SA amounted to 91 (95% CI: 63 to 119), 76.2 (95% CI: 45 to 106), and 61.3 (95% CI: 41 to 81) mm2 at S1, S2, and S3, respectively. Mean FGG SA shrinkage rate was 16.3% (95% CI: 3 to 29) from S1 to S2 and 33% (95% CI: 19 to 46) from S1 to S3. Mean thickness gain from baseline (S0) to S1, S2, and S3 was 1.31 (95% CI: 1.2 to 1.4), 0.82 (95% CI: 0.5 to 1.12), and 0.37 (0.21 to 0.5) mm, respectively. FGG thickness shrinkage was of 38% (95% CI: 17.6 to 58) from S1 to S2 and 71.8% (95% CI: 60 to 84) from S1 to S3. Dimensional changes from S1 to S3 were statistically significant, P <0.017. Soft tissue healing was uneventful in all patients.
Conclusions: The present three‐dimensional assessment suggests that FGG undergo significant dimensional changes in SA and thickness over a 3‐month healing period.
Background: Recent advances in 3D printing technology have enabled the emergence of new educational and clinical tools for medical professionals. This study provides an exemplary description of the fabrication of 3D‐printed individualised patient models and assesses their educational value compared to cadaveric models in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Methods: A single‐stage, controlled cohort study was conducted within the context of a curricular course. A patient's CT scan was segmented into a stereolithographic model and then printed using a fused filament 3D printer. These individualised patient models were implemented and compared against cadaveric models in a curricular oral surgery hands‐on course. Students evaluated both models using a validated questionnaire. Additionally, a cost analysis for both models was carried out. P‐values were calculated using the Mann‐Whitney U test.
Results: Thirty‐eight fourth‐year dental students participated in the study. Overall, significant differences between the two models were found in the student assessment. Whilst the cadaveric models achieved better results in the haptic feedback of the soft tissue, the 3D‐printed individualised patient models were regarded significantly more realistic with regard to the anatomical correctness, the degree of freedom of movement and the operative simulation. At 3.46 € (compared to 6.51 €), the 3D‐printed patient individualised models were exceptionally cost‐efficient.
Conclusions: 3D‐printed patient individualised models presented a realistic alternative to cadaveric models in the undergraduate training of operational skills in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Whilst the 3D‐printed individualised patient models received positive feedback from students, some aspects of the model leave room for improvement.
After removal of a dental implant or extraction of a tooth in the upper jaw, the closure of an oroantral fistula (OAF) or oroantral communication (OAC) can be a difficult problem confronting the dentist and surgeon working in the oral and maxillofacial region. Oroantral communication (OAC) acts as a pathological pathway for bacteria and can cause infection of the antrum, which further obstructs the healing process as it is an unnatural communication between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus. There are different ways to perform the surgical closure of the OAC. The decision-making in closure of oroantral communication and fistula is influenced by many factors. Consequently, it requires a combination of knowledge, experience, and information gathering. Previous narrative research has focused on assessments and comparisons of various surgical techniques for the closure of OAC/OAF. Thus, the decision-making process has not yet been described comprehensively.
The present study aims to illustrate all the factors that have to be considered in the management of OACs and OAFs that determine optimal treatment.
Background and Objective: Macrophages’ cytokine expression and polarization play a substantial role in the host's “destructive” inflammatory response to periodontal and peri‐implant pathogens. This study aimed to evaluate cell viability, anti‐inflammatory activity, and macrophage polarization properties of different cranberry concentrates.
Methods: THP‐1 cells (monocytic line) were treated with phorbol myristic acid to induce macrophage differentiation. Human gingival fibroblasts (HFIB‐G cell line), osteosarcoma‐derived osteoblasts (SAOS‐2 cell line), and induced macrophages were treated with cranberry concentrates at 25, 50, and 100 µg/mL for 120 seconds, 1 hour and 24 hours. Untreated cells at the same time points served as controls. For anti‐inflammatory analysis, induced macrophages exposed to cranberry concentrates (A‐type PACs) were stimulated with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) derived from E coli for 24 hours. Cell viability, interleukin (IL)‐8, IL‐1 ß, IL‐6, and IL‐10 expression of LPS‐stimulated macrophages, and macrophage polarization markers were evaluated through determination of live‐cell protease activity, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and immunofluorescence staining semi‐quantification.
Results: Cranberry concentrates (A‐type PACs) did not reduce HGF, SAOS‐2, and macrophage viability after 24 hours of exposure. Pro‐inflammatory cytokine expression (ie IL‐8 and IL‐6) was downregulated in LPS‐stimulated macrophages by cranberry concentrates at 50 and 100 µg/mL. Anti‐inflammatory IL‐10 expression was significantly upregulated in LPS‐stimulated macrophages by cranberry concentrates at 100 µg/mL after 24 hours of exposure. M1 polarization significantly decreased when LPS‐stimulated macrophages were exposed to cranberry concentrates. High levels of positive M1 macrophages were present in all untreated control groups. M2 polarization significantly increased at all LPS‐stimulated macrophages exposed to cranberry concentrates for 1 and 24 hours.
Conclusion: Cranberry‐derived proanthocyanidins may have the potential to act as an anti‐inflammatory component in the therapy of periodontal and peri‐implant diseases.
The prevalence of peri-implant diseases around subcrestally placed implants: a cross-sectional study
(2021)
Objectives: To evaluate the prevalence of peri-implant health, peri-implant mucositis or periimplantitis for subcrestally placed implants (1–3 mm) on the short-, medium- and long term.
Material and Methods: Two hundred patients were enrolled in this cross-sectional study that were treated and screened during regular maintenance visits at one university center. A total of 657 implants were evaluated. Peri-implant health and diseases were assessed according to predefined case definitions. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the correlation with local and systemic factors.
Results: After a median function time of 9.36 ± 6.44 years (range: 1–26 years), the prevalence of peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis was 66.5% and 15.0%, at the patient level, corresponding to 62.6% and 7.5%, at the implant level, respectively. Peri-implantitis was significantly associated with patients’ history of periodontitis (odds ratio, OR 5.33).
Conclusion: Peri-implant diseases were a common finding around subcrestally placed implants.
Purpose: To retrospectively compare the high-angled sagittal split osteotomy (HOO) and the bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) for the correction of skeletal dysgnathias regarding intra- and postoperative complications.
Methods: The electronic medical records of all patients treated with an orthognathic surgery at the Department for Oral, Maxillofacial and Facial Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Frankfurt, Germany, between the years 2009 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed.
Results: Two hundred ninety-one patients were included. The overall complication rates were 19.78% (BSSO) compared to 12.5% (HOO) (p = 0.14). Significant differences were found regarding the operation time (HOO < BSSO, p = 0.02), material failure (HOO > BSSO, p = 0.04), and early recurrence requiring revision surgery (HOO < BSSO, p = 0.002). The use of a ramus plate significantly reduced the risk of plate failure (2.8% < 13.6%, p = 0.05). More bad splits (p = 0.08) and early sensory disorders (p = 0.07) occurred in the BSSO group.
Conclusion: The HOO presents a possible alternative to the BSSO since newly developed osteosynthesis material significantly reduces the risk of material failure. The BSSO is accompanied by higher risks of developing complications like a bad split and sensory disorders but, however, remains the standard for large anterior–posterior transpositions of the mandible.
Objectives: A conometric concept was recently introduced in which conical implant abutments hold the matching crown copings by friction alone, eliminating the need for cement or screws. The aim of this in vitro study was to assess the presence of microgap formation and bacterial leakage at the Acuris conometric restorative interface of three different implant abutment systems. Material and methods: A total of 75 Acuris samples of three implant-abutment systems (Ankylos, Astra Tech EV, Xive) were subjected to microbiological (n = 60) and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) investigation (n = 15). Bacterial migration into and out of the conical coupling system were analyzed in an anaerobic workstation for 48, 96, 144, and 192 h. Bacterial DNA quantification using qrt-PCR was performed at each time point. The precision of the conometric coupling and internal fit of cemented CAD/CAM crowns on corresponding Acuris TiN copings were determined by means of SEM. Results: qrt-PCR results failed to demonstrate microbial leakage from or into the Acuris system. SEM analysis revealed minute punctate microgaps at the apical aspect of the conometric junction (2.04 to 2.64 µm), while mean cement gaps of 12 to 145 µm were observed at the crown-coping interface. Conclusions: The prosthetic morse taper connection of all systems examined does not allow bacterial passage. Marginal integrity and internal luting gap between the ceramic crown and the coping remained within the clinically acceptable limits. Clinical relevance: Conometrically seated single crowns provide sufficient sealing efficiency, relocating potential misfits from the crown-abutment interface to the crown-coping interface.
Objectives: To assess and compare the efficacy and safety of autogenous tooth roots (TRs) and autogenous bone blocks (ABs) for combined vertical and horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation and two-stage implant placement.
Materials and Methods: A total of 28 patients in need of implant therapy and vertical ridge augmentation were allocated to parallel groups receiving either healthy autogenous tooth roots (e.g., retained wisdom teeth) (n = 14, n = 15 defects) or cortical autogenous bone blocks harvested from the retromolar area (n = 14, n = 17 defects). After 26 weeks of submerged healing, the clinical reduction in ridge height (RH) deficiency was defined as the primary outcome.
Results: Both surgical procedures were associated with a similar mean reduction in RH deficiency values, amounting to 4.48 ± 2.42 mm (median: 4.25; 95% CI: 3.08–5.88) in the TR group and 4.46 ± 3.31 mm (median: 3.00; 95% CI: 2.54–6.38) in the AB group (p = .60, Mann–Whitney U-test). In all patients investigated, the reduction in RH deficiency values allowed for an adequate implant placement at the respective sites. The frequency of complications (e.g., soft tissue dehiscences) was low (TR: n = 4; AB: n = 0).
Conclusions: Up to staged-implant placement, both TR and AB grafts appeared to be associated with comparable efficacy and safety for combined vertical and horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation.
Efficacy of platelet-rich fibrin in promoting the healing of extraction sockets: a systematic review
(2021)
Purpose: To address the focused question: in patients with freshly extracted teeth, what is the efficacy of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in the prevention of pain and the regeneration of soft tissue and bone compared to the respective control without PRF treatment?
Methods: After an electronic data search in PubMed database, the Web of Knowledge of Thomson Reuters and hand search in the relevant journals, a total of 20 randomized and/or controlled studies were included.
Results: 66.6% of the studies showed that PRF significantly reduced the postoperative pain, especially in the first 1–3 days after tooth extraction. Soft tissue healing was significantly improved in the group of PRF compared to the spontaneous wound healing after 1 week (75% of the evaluated studies). Dimensional bone loss was significantly lower in the PRF group compared to the spontaneous wound healing after 8–15 weeks but not after 6 months. Socket fill was in 85% of the studies significantly higher in the PRF group compared to the spontaneous wound healing.
Conclusions: Based on the analyzed studies, PRF is most effective in the early healing period of 2–3 months after tooth extraction. A longer healing period may not provide any benefits. The currently available data do not allow any statement regarding the long-term implant success in sockets treated with PRF or its combination with biomaterials. Due to the heterogeneity of the evaluated data no meta-analysis was performed.
Einleitung: In dem vorliegenden Artikel wird die persönliche Studien- und Lebenssituation von Studierenden mit Kindern am Fachbereich Medizin der Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main beleuchtet. Der spezielle Fokus liegt auf den Themen "Studium mit Kind" sowie "familiengerechte Hochschule", welche in Deutschland in der letzten Dekade sehr präsent sowohl in der Hochschulforschung als auch im akademischen Alltag sind. Hier versucht die Arbeitsstelle "Individuelle Studienbegleitung" am FB Medizin der Goethe-Universität durch ein neues Beratungs- und Servicekonzept mit wissenschaftlicher Begleitforschung den individuellen Studienverläufen gerecht zu werden und den Studienerfolg zu fördern.
Methoden: In erster Linie stammen die hier beschriebenen Erfahrungen der Medizinstudierenden mit Kind aus qualitativen Leitfadeninterviews (Stand April 2010), die im Rahmen des Modellprojektes Teilzeitstudium Medizin durchgeführt wurden. Ergänzend wurden die Studienergebnisse des Fachbereichs Medizin der Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main herangezogen und eine Literaturanalyse einbezogen.
Ergebnisse: Als Ergebnis kann festgehalten werden, dass die bereits seit mehreren Jahren erhobenen Forderungen und gewünschten Unterstützungsleistungen zwar zum Teil umgesetzt, aber noch nicht ausreichend an allen Fachbereichen implementiert wurden. Somit ist die aktuelle Situation von Studierenden mit Kindern in der Medizin nach wie vor schwierig und stellt für alle Beteiligten eine große Herausforderung dar.
Lösungsansatz: Im Rahmen der Arbeitsstelle "Individuelle Studienbegleitung" konnte im November 2009 das "Modellprojekt Teilzeitstudium Medizin" aufgebaut werden. Nur durch neue, unkonventionelle und innovative Ideen kann man die Sicherstellung der medizinischen Ausbildung erreichen und die heutige heterogene Studierendenschaft adäquat ansprechen sowie Studierende erfolgreich durch ihr Studium begleiten.
Radiographic outcomes following lateral alveolar ridge augmentation using autogenous tooth roots
(2018)
Background: To assess and compare the radiographic outcomes following lateral alveolar ridge augmentation using autogenous tooth roots (TR) and autogenous bone (AB) blocks.
Methods: In a total of 30 patients, lateral ridge augmentation was conducted in parallel groups using either (1) healthy autogenous tooth roots (e.g., retained wisdom or impacted teeth) (n = 15) or (2) cortical autogenous bone blocks harvested from the retromolar area. Cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) scans taken at 26 weeks of submerged healing were analyzed for the basal graft integration (i.e., contact between the graft and the host bone in %) (BI26) and the cross-sectional grafted area (mm2) (SA26).
Results: Both groups revealed a comparable clinical width of the alveolar ridge at baseline (CWb). Mean BI26 and SA26 values amounted to 69.26 ± 26.01% (median 72.44) and 22.07 ± 12.98 mm2 (median 18.83) in the TR group and 79.67 ± 15.66% (median 78.85) and 12.42 ± 10.11 mm2 (median 11.36) in the AB group, respectively. Between-group differences in mean SA26 values were statistically significant (p = 0.031). Linear regression analysis failed to reveal any significant correlations between BI26 and CWb/SA26 values in either group.
Conclusions: TR grafts may be associated with improved SA26 values following lateral alveolar ridge augmentation.
Trial registration: DRKS00009586. Registered 10 February 2016.
An oroantral fistula (OAF) is a pathological abnormal communication between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus which may arise as a result of failure of primary healing of an OAF, dental infections, osteomyelitis, radiation therapy, trauma, or iatrogenic complications. With the presence of a fistula, the maxillary sinus is permanently open. Microbial flora passes from the oral cavity into the maxillary sinus, and the inflammation of the sinus occurs with all potential consequences. In literature, various techniques have been proposed for closure of OAFs. Due to the heterogeneity of the data and techniques found, we opted for a narrative review to highlight the variety of techniques discussed in the literature. Techniques of particular interest include the bone sandwich with resorbable guided tissue regeneration (GTR) membrane and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) used alone as both a clot and a membrane. The great advantage of these techniques is that no donor site surgery is necessary, making the outcome valuable in terms of time savings, cost and, more importantly, less discomfort to the patient. Additionally, both bony and soft tissue closure is performed for OAF, in contrast to flaps, which are typically used for procedures in the sinus area. The reconstructed bony tissue regenerated from these techniques will also be appropriate for endosseous dental implantation.
Objectives: To evaluate peri-implant tissue dimensions following nonsurgical (NS) and surgical therapy (S) employing different decontamination protocols of advanced ligature-induced peri-implantitis in dogs.
Material & Methods: Peri-implantitis defects (n = 5 dogs, n = 30 implants) were randomly and equally allocated in a split-mouth design to NS or S treatment using either an Er:YAG laser (ERL), an ultrasonic device (VUS), or plastic curettes + local application of metronidazole gel (PCM), respectively. Horizontal bone thickness (hBT) and soft tissue thickness (hMT) were measured at different reference points: (v0) at the marginal portion of the peri-implant mucosa (PM); (v1) at 50% of the distance from PM to bone crest (BC); (v2) at the BC; (v3) at the most coronal extension of the bone-to-implant contact. Vertical peri-implant tissue height was calculated from PM to BC.
Results: All of the treatment groups showed a gradual hMT increase from v0 to the v2 reference point, followed by a reduction from v2 to the v3 region. The S-VUS subgroup tended to be associated with higher hMT values at the v0 region than the NS-VUS subgroup (0.44 mm versus 0.31 mm). PM-BC distance varied from 2.22 to 2.83 mm in the NS group, and from 2.07 to 2.38 in the S group.
Conclusion: Vertical and horizontal peri-implant tissue dimensions were similar in different treatment groups.
Objectives: To assess the short‐term clinical outcomes of lateral augmentation of deficient extraction sockets and two‐stage implant placement using autogenous tooth roots (TR).
Material and methods: A total of n = 13 patients (13 implants) were available for the analysis. At the time of tooth extraction, each subject had received lateral augmentation using the respective non‐retainable but non‐infected tooth root where the thickness of the buccal bone was <0.5 mm or where a buccal dehiscence‐type defect was present. Titanium implants were placed after a submerged healing period of 6 months and loaded after 20 ± 2 weeks (V8). Clinical parameters (e.g., bleeding on probing—BOP, probing pocket depth—PD, mucosal recession—MR, clinical attachment level—CAL) were recorded at V8 and after 26 ± 4 weeks (V9) of implant loading.
Results: At V9, all patients investigated revealed non‐significant changes in mean BOP (−19.23 ± 35.32%), PD (0.24 ± 0.49 mm), MR (0.0 ± 0.0 mm) and CAL (0.24 ± 0.49 mm) values, respectively. There was no significant correlation between the initial gain in ridge width and changes in BOP and PD values.
Conclusions: The surgical procedure was associated with stable peri‐implant tissues on the short‐term.
Objectives: The aim of the present study was to characterize the cellular reaction to a xenogeneic resorbable collagen membrane of porcine origin using a subcutaneous implantation model in Wistar rats over 30 days.
Materials and methods: Ex vivo, liquid platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), a leukocyte and platelet-rich cell suspension, was used to evaluate the blood cell membrane interaction. The material was implanted subcutaneously in rats. Sham-operated rats without biomaterial displayed physiological wound healing (control group). Histological, immunohistological, and histomorphometric analyses were focused on the inflammatory pattern, vascularization rate, and degradation pattern.
Results: The membrane induced a large number of mononuclear cells over the observation period, including lymphocytes, macrophages, and fibroblasts. After 15 days, multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs) were observed on the biomaterial surface. Their number increased significantly, and they proceeded to the center of the biomaterial on day 30. These cells highly expressed CD-68, calcitonin receptor, and MMP-9, but not TRAP or integrin-ß3. Thus, the membrane lost its integrity and underwent disintegration as a consequence of the induction of MNGCs. The significant increase in MNGC number correlated with a high rate of vascularization, which was significantly higher than the control group. Physiological wound healing in the control group did not induce any MNGCs at any time point. Ex vivo blood cells from liquid-PRF did not penetrate the membrane.
Conclusion: The present study suggests a potential role for MNGCs in biomaterial degradation and questions whether it is beneficial to accept them in clinically approved biomaterials or focus on biomaterials that induce only mononuclear cells. Thus, further studies are necessary to identify the function of biomaterial-induced MNGCs.
Clinical relevance: Understanding the cellular reaction to biomaterials is essential to assess their suitability for specific clinical indications and outline the potential benefit of specific group of biomaterials in the respective clinical indications.
Different tissue engineering techniques are used to support rapid vascularisation. A novel technique is the use of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), an autologous source of growth factors. This study was the first to investigate the influence of PRF matrices, isolated following different centrifugation protocols, on human dermal vascular endothelial cells (ECs) in mono-culture and co-culture with human primary fibroblasts (HFs) as an in vitro model for tissue regeneration. Focus was placed on vascular structure formation and growth factor release. HFs and ECs were cultivated with PRF prepared using a high (710 ×g) or low (44 ×g) relative centrifugation force (RCF) over 14 d. Immunofluorescence staining and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate the microvascular formation. Cell culture supernatants were collected for evaluation of growth factor release. The results showed a PRF-mediated effect on the induction of angiogenesis in ECs. Microvessel-like structure formation was promoted when ECs were combined with low-RCF PRF as compared to high-RCF PRF or control group. The percentage of vascular lumen area was significantly higher in low-RCF PRF, especially at day 7, which coincided with statistically significantly higher growth factor [vascular endothelial factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and platelet derived growth factor (PDGF)] concentration measured in low-RCF PRF as compared to high-RCF PRF or control group. In conclusion, reducing the RCF according to the low-speed centrifugation concept (LSCC) resulted in increased growth factor release and angiogenic structure formation with EC mono-culture, suggesting that PRF may be a highly beneficial therapeutic tool for tissue engineering applications.
The present study evaluated the tissue response toward a resorbable collagen membrane derived from bovine achilles tendon (test group) in comparison to physiological wound healing (control group). After subcutaneous implantation in Wistar rats over 30 days, histochemical and immunohistochemical methods elucidated the cellular inflammatory response, vascularization pattern, membrane protein and cell absorbance capacity. After 30 days, the test-group induced two different inflammatory patterns. On the membrane surface, multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs) were formed after the accumulation of CD-68-positive cells (macrophages), whereas only mononuclear cells (MNCs) were found within the membrane central region. Peri-implant vascularization was significantly enhanced after the formation of MNGCs. No vessels were found within the central region of the membrane. Physiological wound healing revealed no MNGCs at any time point. These dynamic changes in the cellular reaction and vascularization within the test-group are related typical indications of a foreign body reaction. Due to the membrane-specific porosity, mononuclear cells migrated into the central region, and the membrane maintained its integrity over 30 days by showing no breakdown or disintegration. The ex vivo investigation analyzed the interaction between the membrane and a blood concentrate system, liquid platelet-rich fibrin (liquid PRF), derived from human peripheral blood and consisting of platelets, leukocytes and fibrin. PRF penetrated the membrane after just 15 min. The data question the role of biomaterial-induced MNGCs as a pathological reaction and whether this is acceptable to trigger vascularization or should be considered as an adverse reaction. Therefore, further pre-clinical and clinical studies are needed to identify the types of MNGCs that are induced by clinically approved biomaterials.
Tumor-associated macrophages, angiogenesis, and tumor cell migration in oral squamous cell carcinoma
(2017)
Objective: To investigate the relationship between tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), neovascularization, and tumor cell migration in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) of an African subpopulation.
Materials and Methods: Twenty OSCC paraffin blocks underwent immunohistochemistry to TAM1 (CCR7), TAM2 (CD206), Twist, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and CD34. The relative percentage of CCR7 + and CD206 + cells to overall immune cell population was calculated for three high power fields and an average was taken. TAM-related microvessel density (MVD) was determined as the mean of the three recorded values. Cases that had no CD34 + vessels adjacent to the TAMs region were regarded as having an MVD score of 0.
Results: Ten cases (50%) expressed greater CCR7 activity than CD206, seven cases (35%) expressed approximately equal activity of CCR7 and CD206, while three cases (15%) expressed greater activity of CD206 than CCR7. Twist expression was strong in some cases with strong N-cadherin and weak E-cadherin, but the expression of Twist was not consistently high in all cases that expressed strong N-cadherin and weak E-cadherin.
Conclusions: TAMs distribution suggested antitumor activity and the potential for tumor metastasis was only partly due to Twist-mediated epithelial–mesenchymal transition.
Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a blood concentrate derived from venous blood that is processed without anticoagulants by a one-step centrifugation process. This three-dimensional scaffold contains inflammatory cells and plasma proteins entrapped in a fibrin matrix. Liquid-PRF was developed based on the previously described low-speed centrifuge concept (LSCC), which allowed the introduction of a liquid-PRF formulation of fibrinogen and thrombin prior to its conversion to fibrin. Liquid-PRF was introduced to meet the clinical demand for combination with biomaterials in a clinically applicable and easy-to-use way. The aim of the present study was to evaluate, ex vivo, the interaction of the liquid-PRF constituents with five different collagen biomaterials by histological analyses. The results first demonstrated that large variability existed between the biomaterials investigated. Liquid-PRF was able to completely invade Mucograft® (MG; Geistlich Biomaterials, Wolhusen, Switzerland) and to partly invade Bio-Gide® (BG; Geistlich Biomaterials, Wolhusen, Switzerland) and Mucoderm® (MD; Botiss Biomaterials, Berlin, Germany), and Collprotect® (CP; Botiss Biomaterials, Berlin, Germany) showed only a superficial interaction. The BEGO® collagen membrane (BCM; BEGO Implant Systems) appeared to be completely free of liquid-PRF. These results were confirmed by the different cellular penetration and liquid-PRF absorption coefficient (PAC) values of the evaluated membranes. The present study demonstrates a system for loading biomaterials with a complex autologous cell system (liquid-PRF) in a relatively short period of time and in a clinically relevant manner. The combination of biomaterials with liquid-PRF may be clinically utilized to enhance the bioactivity of collagen-based biomaterials and may act as a biomaterial-based growth factor delivery system.
The permeability and inflammatory tissue reaction to Mucomaix® matrix (MM), a non- cross-linked collagen-based matrix was evaluated in both ex vivo and in vivo settings. Liquid platelet rich fibrin (PRF), a blood concentrate system, was used to assess its capacity to absorb human proteins and interact with blood cells ex vivo. In the in vivo aspect, 12 Wister rats had MM implanted subcutaneously, whereas another 12 rats (control) were sham-operated without biomaterial implantation. On days 3, 15 and 30, explantation was completed (four rats per time-point) to evaluate the tissue reactions to the matrix. Data collected were statistically analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey multiple comparisons tests (GraphPad Prism 8). The matrix absorbed the liquid PRF in the ex vivo study. Day 3 post-implantation revealed mild tissue inflammatory reaction with presence of mononuclear cells in the implantation site and on the biomaterial surface (mostly CD68-positive macrophages). The control group at this stage had more mononuclear cells than the test group. From day 15, multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs) were seen in the implantation site and the outer third of the matrix with marked increase on day 30 and spread to the matrix core. The presence of these CD68-positive MNGCs was associated with significant matrix vascularization. The matrix degraded significantly over the study period, but its core was still visible as of day 30 post-implantation. The high permeability and fast degradation properties of MM were highlighted.
(1) Background: Protruding ears are the most common auricular malformation affecting approximately 5% of the population. One common factor leading to auricular protrusion is a deficiency or total absence of the antihelix. A technique first described by Gottfried Lemperle in 2003 attempts cartilage thinning, folding, and fixation by non-absorbable mattress sutures after ventral skin incision along the ventral helical rim. (2) Methods: Retrospective analysis of patient records was performed for otoplasties according to this technique, performed between 1985 and 2014 at Agaplesion Markus Hospital in Frankfurt, Germany. All recorded complications were examined. (3) Results: A total of 912 single otoplasties were performed according to this technique from 1985 to 2014. Overall complications included 26% minor complications not requiring further surgery and 11% major complications leading to revision surgery. Within those requiring revision surgery, the most common reason was recurrence of auricular protrusion (5%), followed by suture granulomas (5%) and hematomas (2%). (4) Conclusions: Lemperle’s otoplasty technique addresses the open thinning and shaping of the antihelix through a ventral incision along the helix to prevent irregularities and possible ridges. Results show a low complication rate comparable to data found in published studies. This technique is easy to perform, safe, and avoids often seen contour irregularities of the antihelix compared to techniques with a posterior approach.
Cellular response of human osteoblasts to different presentations of deproteinized bovine bone
(2022)
Objectives: This study evaluated the cellular response of primary osteoblasts exposed to two different presentations of a low-temperature non-sintered deproteinized bovine bone matrix (DBBM). Materials and methods: Six different baths of a commercially available DBBM block (Bonefill® Porous Block) and one of DBBM granule (Bonefill® Porous) were evaluated to identify the mineral structure and organic or cellular remnants. Samples of the same baths were processed in TRIZOL for RNA extraction and quantification. For the immunologic cell reaction assay, primary human osteoblasts (pOB) were exposed to DBMM block (pOB + B) or granules (pOB + G), or none (control) for 1, 3, or 7 days of cell cultivation. Expression of proinflammatory cytokines by pOB was evaluated by crosslinked ELISA assay. In addition, total DNA amount, as well as cell viability via LDH evaluation, was assessed. Results: Organic remnants were present in DBBM blocks; 45.55% (±7.12) of osteocytes lacunae presented cellular remnants in blocks compared to 17.31% (±1.31) in granules. In three of five batches of blocks, it was possible to isolate bovine RNA. The highest concentration of TGF-β1 was found in supernatants of pOB + G on day 7 (218.85 ± 234.62 pg/mL) (p < 0.05), whereas pOB + B presented the lowest amount of TGF-β1 secretion at the end of evaluation (30.22 ± 14.94 pg/mL, p < 0.05). For IL-6 and OPG, there was no statistical difference between groups, while pOB + G induced more IL-8 secretion than the control (3.03 ± 3.38 ng/mL, p < 0.05). Considering the kinetics of cytokine release during the study period, all groups presented a similar pattern of cytokines, estimated as an increasing concentration for IL-6, IL-8, and OPG during cultivation. Adherent cells were observed on both material surfaces on day 7, according to H&E and OPN staining. Conclusion: Neither tested material induced a pronounced inflammatory response upon osteoblast cultivation. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the potential influence of organic remnants in bone substitute materials on the regeneration process.
Razina pročišćenosti alogenoga koštanog bloka = Variant purification of an allogeneic bone block
(2017)
Svrha: Ovaj kratak tekst izvještava o histološkoj analizi sastava komercijalno raspoloživih alogenih koštanih blokova Maxgraft®. Materijali i metode: Na temelju objavljenih histoloških metoda prazni uzorci alogenih koštanih blokova Maxgraft® dekalcificirani su, dehidrirani i uloženi u parafin prije histološkog i histokemijskog bojenja. Nakon toga na prerezima su se procjenjivala obilježja materijala, poput strukture koštanoga matriksa i druge komponente, uključujući kolagen ili stanice/stanične ostatke. Rezultati: Uočeno je da ovi koštani blokovi imaju trabekularnu strukturu s lamelarnom podorganizacijom. Dodatno su nađeni i stanični ostatci unutar lakuna osteocita i na vanjskim površinama trabekula zajedno s ostatcima intertrabekularnog masnog i vezivnog tkiva, te kolagene strukture, vezivno-tkivne stanice i stanični ostatci. Zaključak: U skladu s dosadašnjim istraživanjima, podatci iz ovoga teksta pokazuju da neke od certificiranih tehnika pročišćavanja ne omogućuju proizvodnju alogenog materijala bez organskih stanica i tkivnih komponenata.
Introduction: To determine the esthetic outcome of implant-based reconstructions after autologous and allogeneic bone grafting.
Methods: From 2003 to 2009, 67 patients underwent alveolar ridge augmentation and were enrolled in the study, 41 meet the inclusion criteria and 31 agreed to take part in the study. Patients were 18-69 years old (mean: 49.3 ± 13.8 years), and predominantly female. Patients received bone block grafts either autologous (n = 48) (AUBB) or allografts (ABB) (n = 19). Implants were inserted 4-7 months (autografts) or 5-6 months (allografts) after bone grafting. The Pink Esthetic Score (PES) as well as radiographic and subjective assessments were employed for the outcome analysis. The PES was assessed twice within one month based on digital photographic images that were randomly rearranged between evaluations by three independent, experienced investigators.
Results: Across all observations and investigators, the average PES was 7.5 ± 2.6 without differences between implants inserted in auto- and allografted bone, respectively. Patients assessed the allograft procedures as less painful and would have repeated it more often. The intra-rater reliability was excellent (correlation coefficients 0.7-0.9). The inter-observer agreement was lower (correlation coefficients 0.6-0.8).
Conclusions: Bone grafting with ABB allografts yields equivalent results to autologous grafting, and patients appreciate the omission of bone harvesting. The PES is a reliable method but should be performed by the same individual.
Introduction: The aim of this study was to clinically assess the capacity of a novel bovine pericardium based, non-cross linked collagen matrix in root coverage.
Methods: 62 gingival recessions of Miller class I or II were treated. The matrix was adapted underneath a coronal repositioned split thickness flap. Clinical values were assessed at baseline and after six months.
Results: The mean recession in each patient was 2.2 mm at baseline. 6 Months after surgery 86.7% of the exposed root surfaces were covered. On average 0,3 mm of recession remained. The clinical attachment level changed from 3.5 ± 1.3 mm to 1,8 ( ± 0,7) mm during the observational time period. No statistically significant difference was found in the difference of probing depth. An increase in the width of gingiva was significant. With a baseline value of 1.5 ± 0.9 mm an improvement of 2.4 ± 0.8 mm after six month could be observed. 40 out of 62 recessions were considered a thin biotype at baseline. After 6 months all 62 sites were assessed thick.
Conclusions: The results demonstrate the capacity of the bovine pericardium based non-cross linked collagen matrix for successful root coverage. This material was able to enhance gingival thickness and the width of keratinized gingiva. The percentage of root coverage achieved thereby is comparable to existing techniques. This method might contribute to an increase of patient's comfort and an enhanced aesthetical outcome.
Osteocalcin, Azan and Toluidine blue staining in fibrous dysplasia and ossifying fibroma of the jaws
(2018)
Background: Fibrous dysplasia (FD) and ossifying fibroma (OF) are fibro-osseous lesions (FOLs) having several overlaps that may make final diagnosis difficult by hematoxylin and eosin (H/E) alone.
Aim: This study seeks to detect any association between Azan and Toluidine blue staining as compared with osteocalcin in FD and OF diagnosis.
Methods:Forty formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) blocks of FD and OF were prepared for Azan, Toluidine blue and osteocalcin staining. Brown staining of calcified structures was considered as positive for osteocalcin. Scoring for Azan and Toluidine blue was evaluated based on intensity and localization. Level of agreement of original and revised diagnosis was determined.
Results: Six (40%) of 15 FD were corroborated by osteocalcin. Eight cases initially diagnosed as OF were revised to FD. There were 25 OF according to H/E, and 17 (68%) were validated by osteocalcin. Measure of agreement between histology and immunohistochemistry was 0.081; p = .608. Eleven (42.3%) OF expressed strong toluidine blue staining of the intervening fibrous connective tissue stroma while only 2 (14.2%) FD showed similar staining, this difference was statistically significant [p = .001].
Conclusions: Histomorphometric analysis with Toluidine blue may reduce diagnostic errors of OF and FD.
Aim: To assess volumetric tissue changes at peri‐implantitis sites following combined surgical therapy of peri‐implantitis over a 6‐month follow‐up period.
Materials and Methods: Twenty patients (n = 28 implants) diagnosed with peri‐implantitis underwent access flap surgery, implantoplasty at supracrestally or bucally exposed implant surfaces and augmentation at intra‐bony components using a natural bone mineral and application of a native collagen membrane during clinical routine treatments. The peri‐implant region of interest (ROI) was intra‐orally scanned pre‐operatively (S0), and after 1 (S1) and 6 (S2) months following surgical therapy. Digital files were converted to standard tessellation language (STL) format for superimposition and assessment of peri‐implant volumetric variations between time points. The change in thickness was assessed at a standardized ROI, subdivided into three equidistant sections (i.e. marginal, medial and apical). Peri‐implant soft tissue contour area (STCA) (mm2) and its corresponding contraction rates (%) were also assessed.
Results: Peri‐implant tissues revealed a mean thickness change (loss) of −0.11 and −0.28 mm at 1 and 6 months. S0 to S1 volumetric variations pointed to a thickness change of −0.46, 0.08 and 0.4 mm at marginal, medial and apical regions, respectively. S0 to S2 analysis exhibited corresponding thickness changes of −0.61, −0.25 and −0.09 mm, respectively. The thickness differences between the areas were statistically significant at both time periods. The mean peri‐implant STCA totalled to 189.2, 175 and 158.9 mm2 at S0, S1 and S2, showing a significant STCA contraction rate of 7.9% from S0 to S1 and of 18.5% from S0 to S2. Linear regression analysis revealed a significant association between the pre‐operative width of keratinized mucosa (KM) and STCA contraction rate.
Conclusions: The peri‐implant mucosa undergoes considerable volumetric changes after combined surgical therapy. However, tissue contraction appears to be influenced by the width of KM.
Objectives: To immunohistochemically characterize and correlate macrophage M1/M2 polarization status with disease severity at peri-implantitis sites.
Materials and methods: A total of twenty patients (n = 20 implants) diagnosed with peri-implantitis (i.e., bleeding on probing with or without suppuration, probing depths ≥ 6 mm, and radiographic marginal bone loss ≥ 3 mm) were included. The severity of peri-implantitis was classified according to established criteria (i.e., slight, moderate, and advanced). Granulation tissue biopsies were obtained during surgical therapy and prepared for immunohistological assessment and macrophage polarization characterization. Macrophages, M1, and M2 phenotypes were identified through immunohistochemical markers (i.e., CD68, CD80, and CD206) and quantified through histomorphometrical analyses.
Results: Macrophages exhibiting a positive CD68 expression occupied a mean proportion of 14.36% (95% CI 11.4–17.2) of the inflammatory connective tissue (ICT) area. Positive M1 (CD80) and M2 (CD206) macrophages occupied a mean value of 7.07% (95% CI 5.9–9.4) and 5.22% (95% CI 3.8–6.6) of the ICT, respectively. The mean M1/M2 ratio was 1.56 (95% CI 1–12–1.9). Advanced peri-implantitis cases expressed a significantly higher M1 (%) when compared with M2 (%) expression. There was a significant correlation between CD68 (%) and M1 (%) expression and probing depth (PD) values.
Conclusion: The present immunohistochemical analysis suggests that macrophages constitute a considerable proportion of the inflammatory cellular composition at peri-implantitis sites, revealing a significant higher expression for M1 inflammatory phenotype at advanced peri-implantitis sites, which could possibly play a critical role in disease progression.
Clinical relevance: Macrophages have critical functions to establish homeostasis and disease. Bacteria might induce oral dysbiosis unbalancing the host’s immunological response and triggering inflammation around dental implants. M1/M2 status could possibly reveal peri-implantitis’ underlying pathogenesis.
Aim: To evaluate the influence of the width of keratinized tissue (KT) on the prevalence of peri-implant diseases, and soft- and hard-tissue stability.
Materials and methods: Clinical studies reporting on the prevalence of peri-implant diseases (primary outcome), plaque index (PI), modified plaque index (mPI), bleeding index (mBI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing pocket depths (PD), mucosal recession (MR), and marginal bone loss (MBL) and/or patient-reported outcomes (PROMs; secondary outcomes) were searched. The weighted mean differences (WMD) were estimated for the assessed clinical and radiographic parameters by employing a random-effect model that considered different KT widths (i.e., <2 and ≥2 mm).
Results: Twenty-two articles describing 21 studies (15 cross-sectional, five longitudinal comparative studies, and one case series with pre–post design) with an overall high to low risk of bias were included. Peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis affected 20.8% to 42% and at 10.5% to 44% of the implants with reduced or absent KT (i.e., <2 mm or 0 mm). The corresponding values at the implant sites with KT width of ≥2 mm or >0 mm were 20.5% to 53% and 5.1% to 8%, respectively. Significant differences between implants with KT < 2 mm and those with KT ≥ 2 mm were revealed for WMD for BOP, mPI, PI, MBL, and MR all favoring implants with KT ≥ 2 mm.
Conclusion: Reduced KT width is associated with an increased prevalence of peri-implantitis, plaque accumulation, soft-tissue inflammation, mucosal recession, marginal bone loss, and greater patient discomfort.
Background/aim: The aim of this study was to analyze a population of patients who had suffered from traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) by using different patient-, trauma- and treatment-related parameters.
Material and methods: All dental records of patients ≥ 3 years old who had presented at the dental emergency service between Jan 1, 2009 and Dec 31, 2016 for the treatment of dental trauma were analyzed. A total of 2758 patients were invited for a recall examination at the Department for Dental Surgery and Implantology, ZZMK Carolinum, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany; of these, 269 patients attended their recall appointments.
Results: The enrolled patient population consisted of 1718 males and 1040 females, with a mean age of 19.63 years (median 12.00 ± 17.354 years). A total of 4909 injured teeth were assessed, with a mean of 1.78 injured teeth per patient (median 2.00 ± 1.279). Males were found to be more frequently affected by TDIs compared to females (1.65:1). The majority of these injuries occurred in the first two decades of life (66.1%; n = 1824). The majority of the patients presented for initial treatment within 24 h of their accident (95.7%). The most frequent TDIs were isolated luxation injuries 49.4% (n = 2426) and isolated crown fractures 30% (n = 1472). Combination injuries were diagnosed in 20.6% of the cases (n = 1011).
Conclusions: Based on the findings of the present analysis, it can be concluded that males were more frequently affected by TDIs than females. Most patients had suffered from TDI before they had turned 10 years of age. Overall, the enamel–dentin fracture was found to be the most frequent injury, followed by concussions and lateral luxations.
Background: The correct performance of a structured facial examination presents a fundamental clinical skill to detect facial pathologies. However, many students are not adequately prepared in this basic clinical skill. Many argue that the traditional ‘See One, Do One’ approach is not sufficient to fully master a clinical skill. ‘Mental Training’ has successfully been used to train psychomotor and technical skills in sports and other surgical fields, but its use in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is not described. We conducted a quasi-experimental to determine if ‘Mental Training’ was effective in teaching a structured facial examination.
Methods: Sixty-seven students were randomly assigned to a ‘Mental Training’ and ‘See One, Do One’ group. Both groups received standardized video instruction on how to perform a structured facial examination. The ‘See One, Do One’ group then received 60 min of guided physical practice while the ‘Mental Training’ group actively developed a detailed, stepwise sequence of the performance of a structured facial examination and visualized this sequence subvocally before practicing the skill. Student performance was measured shortly after (T1) and five to 10 weeks (T2) after the training by two blinded examiners (E1 and E2) using a validated checklist.
Results: Groups did not differ in gender, age or in experience. The ‘Mental Training’ group averaged significantly more points in T1 (pE1 = 0.00012; pE2 = 0.004; dE1 = 0.86; dE2 = 0.66) and T2 (pE1 = 0.04; pE2 = 0.008, dE1 = 0.37; dE2 = 0.64) than the ‘See One, Do One’ group. The intragroup comparison showed a significant (pE1 = 0.0002; pE2 = 0.06, dE1 = 1.07; dE2 = 0.50) increase in clinical examination skills in the ‘See One, Do One’ group, while the ‘Mental Training’ group maintained an already high level of clinical examination skills between T1 and T2.
Discussion: ‘Mental Training’ is an efficient tool to teach and maintain basic clinical skills. In this study ‘Mental Training’ was shown to be superior to the commonly used ‘See One, Do One’ approach in learning how to perform a structured facial examination and should therefore be considered more often to teach physical examination skills.
Introduction: The treatment of carious lesions is one of the most fundamental competencies in daily dental practice. However, many commercially available training models lack in reality regarding the simulation of pathologies such as carious lesions. 3D printed models could provide a more realistic simulation. This study provides an exemplary description of the fabrication of 3D printed dental models with carious lesions and assesses their educational value compared to commercially available models in conservative dentistry.
Materials and Methods: A single-stage, controlled cohort study was conducted within the context of a curricular course. A stereolithographic model was obtained from an intraoral scan and then printed using fused deposition modelling. These models were first piloted by experts and then implemented and compared against commercial models in a conservative dentistry course. Experts and students evaluated both models using a validated questionnaire. Additionally, a cost analysis for both models was carried out.
Results: Thirteen dentists and twenty-seven 5th year dental students participated in the study. The 3D printed models were rated significantly more realistic in many test areas. In particular, the different tactility and the distinction in colour was rated positively in the 3D printed models. At 28.29€ (compared to 112.36€), the 3D printed models were exceptionally cost-efficient.
Conclusions: 3D printed dental models present a more realistic and cost-efficient alternative to commercial models in the undergraduate training of conservative dentistry.
Aim: The primary aim of this study was to analyze frequency and characteristics of combined facial and peripheral trauma with consecutive hospitalization and treatment.
Materials and methods: The study included all patients with concomitant orthopedic-traumatolgical (OT) and craniomaxillofacial (CMF) injuries admitted to our level I trauma center in 2018. The data were collected by analysis of the institution’s database and radiological reviews and included age, sex, injury type, weekday and time of presentation. All patients were examined and treated by a team of surgeons specialized in OT and CMF directly after presentation.
Results: A total number of 1040 combined OT and CMF patients were identified. Mean age was 33.0 ± 26.2 years. 67.3% (n = 700) were male patients. Primary presentation happened most frequently on Sundays (n = 199) and between 7 and 8 pm (n = 74). 193 OT fractures were documented, where cervical spine injuries were most frequent (n = 30). 365 facial and skull fractures were recorded. 10.8% of the 204 patients with fractures of the viscerocranium presented with at least one fracture of the extremity, 7.8% (16/204) with cervical spine fractures, 33.3% (68/204) with signs of closed brain trauma and 9.8% (20/204) with intracranial hemorrhage.
Discussion: The study shows a high frequency of combined facial with OT-injuries and brain damage in a predominantly young and male cohort. Attendance by interdisciplinary teams of both CMF and OT surgeons specialized in cervical spine trauma surgery is highly advisable for adequate treatment.
Conclusion: Diagnostics and treatment should be performed by a highly specialized OT and CMF team, with a consulting neurosurgeon in a level-1 trauma center to avoid missed diagnoses and keep mortality low.
The combination of histological and biomolecular analyses provides deep understanding of different biological processes and is of high interest for basic and applied research. However, the available analytical methods are still limited, especially when considering bone samples. This study compared different fixation media to identify a sufficient analytical method for the combination of histological, immuno-histological and biomolecular analyses of the same fixed, processed and paraffin embedded bone sample. Bone core biopsies of rats’ femurs were fixed in different media (RNAlater + formaldehyde (R + FFPE), methacarn (MFPE) or formaldehyde (FFPE)) for 1 week prior to decalcification by EDTA and further histological processing and paraffin embedding. Snap freezing (unfixed frozen tissue, UFT) and incubation in RNAlater were used as additional controls. After gaining the paraffin sections for histological and immunohistological analysis, the samples were deparaffined and RNA was isolated by a modified TRIZOL protocol. Subsequently, gene expression was evaluated using RT-qPCR. Comparable histo-morphological and immuno-histological results were evident in all paraffin embedded samples of MFPE, FFPE and R + FFPE. The isolated RNA in the group of MFPE showed a high concentration and high purity, which was comparable to the UFT and RNAlater groups. However, in the groups of FFPE and R + FFPE, the RNA quality and quantity were statistically significantly lower when compared to MFPE, UFT and RNAlater. RT-qPCR results showed a comparable outcome in the group of MFPE and UFT, whereas the groups of FFPE and R + FFPE did not result in a correctly amplified gene product. Sample fixation by means of methacarn is of high interest for clinical samples to allow a combination of histological, immunohistological and biomolecular analysis. The implementation of such evaluation method in clinical research may allow a deeper understanding of the processes of bone formation and regeneration.
Background: The feedback given to students plays an important role in their efficiency related to learning practical skills. In the present study, diverse feedback modalities have been investigated. Our hypothesis is that individualized and unsupervised video feedback can produce a similar learning experience as performing practical skills in an oral and maxillofacial surgery setting with conventional direct expert feedback (control group).
Methods: This prospective, randomized, controlled, and blinded study compared direct expert feedback (DEF), individualized video feedback (IVF) and unsupervised video feedback (UVF). The participants were fourth-year dental students from University Goethe in Frankfurt. The students were assigned to one of the three feedback methods (n = 20 per group) using simple randomization. All participants watched an instruction video for an interdental (‘Ernst’) ligature and periphery venous catheterization. Next, the students were video recorded performing the tasks by themselves (pre-test). Following this, every student received feedback using one of the above-mentioned feedback modalities. The participants then performed the same task again while being video recorded (post-test) to measure the acquired competence. Six weeks later, the students participated in an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) to evaluate their long-term knowledge retention. All examiners were blinded regarding the students’ instructional approach and their affiliation in terms of the learning group.
Results: For the interdental ligature, we found significant improvements in performance in each feedback modality group between the pre-test and post-test (p < 0.001). UVF had the strongest effect on performance time. The comparison between each group in the post-test showed no significant differences between the three groups.
Conclusion: This study showed that IVF and UVF can be considered an alternative or adjunct to conventional methods (i.e. DEF) when learning procedural skills in oral and maxillofacial surgery. However, DEF showed to be the most effective method of feedback and therefore preferable in teaching.
Implementation and evaluation of a Tele-OSCE in oral and maxillofacial surgery – a pilot report
(2022)
Background: The ongoing changes in learning and education towards digitalisation have been rapidly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Especially in dental education where contact to the oral cavity is an integral part of training the chosen digital examination methods and training formats must undergo high requirements to full fill the goal of a real alternative to face-to-face exams. Therefore, this study compared student performance in a newly developed Tele-OSCE with a prior OSCE examinations in presence within an oral- and maxillofacial surgery curriculum.
Methods: Study participants were fourth-year (in a five year curriculum) dental students and board certified maxillofacial surgeons (examiners) that took part in a newly developed Tele-OSCE that comprised three five-minute stations (structured facial examination, management mandibular fracture and squamous cell carcinoma) using the zoom® software. Student performance was measured using validated OSCE-Checklists and compared to a previous OSCE examination from the winter term 2019 with the same OSCE stations that was conducted in presence. Significant differences were tested using the Mann-Whitney U test. Furthermore, the new Tele-OSCE was evaluated by students and examiners using previously developed questionnaires.
Results: Sixty-six dental students (study group: n=34, summer term 2021, control group: n=32 winter term 2019) and nine examiners participated in the study. Compared to previous non-pandemic OSCEs, there were no significant (p=0.53) differences in overall student performance. Evaluation of the Tele-OSCE showed that the demonstration and rating of practical skills was limited due to missing standard patients or phantoms, however, students did not fear to be misjudged. The demonstration and rating of anamnestic and consultation competencies was seen as unproblematic by students and examiners.
Discussion: This pilot-study showed the feasibility of a Tele-OSCE as a formative examination in dental education. However, both students and examiners felt that the demonstration and assessment of practical skills was limited due the new examination format. Nevertheless, Tele-OSCEs might offer an alternative to enable students to complete their dental training.