Actively Recruiting
Assessment of Soft Tissue Thickness Over Zygomatic Implants in Atrophied Maxilla Covered With Buccal Fat Pad vs. Palatal Pedicle Flap
Led by Future University in Egypt · Updated on 2026-05-20
4
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
8 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are investigating two methods of soft tissue coverage over zygomatic implants in patients with severely atrophied maxilla. The study aims to compare the Buccal Fat Pad flap, a common technique using vascularized soft tissue from the cheek, with the Palatal Pedicle Flap, which uses thick keratinized tissue from the palate. This randomized controlled clinical trial uses a split-mouth design where each patient receives both treatments on opposite sides to reduce variability and improve comparison accuracy. The trial involves patients with bilateral zygomatic implants placed in the upper jaw. On one side, the Buccal Fat Pad is accessed through a mucosal incision, mobilized, and secured over the implant. On the other side, the Palatal Pedicle Flap, containing its vascular supply, is rotated to cover the implant area. Both flaps are fixed with resorbable sutures for tension-free closure. Standard post-operative care, including antibiotics and mouth rinses, is provided. The healing and tissue stability will be assessed over a 6-month period. Participants will undergo evaluations of soft tissue thickness around the implant collar at three points using a periodontal probe. Post-treatment follow-ups will monitor tissue healing and implant environment stability. The study lasts 6 months, during which clinical assessments will document the outcomes of each flap technique. This trial seeks to provide reliable evidence to guide soft tissue management in complex dental implant cases where the Buccal Fat Pad may be insufficient or unavailable.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Assessment of Soft Tissue Thickness Over Zygomatic Implants in Atrophied Maxilla Covered With Buccal Fat Pad vs. Palatal Pedicle Flap
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Patients 18 years or older with severely atrophic maxilla
- Acquired maxillary defects from trauma, pathology, or previous surgery
- Indicated for zygomatic implant-supported fixed prosthesis
- Sufficient mouth opening to allow zygomatic implant placement
- Willing to sign informed consent and attend follow-up visits
You will not qualify if you...
- Uncontrolled systemic diseases affecting healing (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes)
- Heavy smokers
- Previous radiotherapy or bisphosphonate therapy
- Active sinus or nasal infection
- Severe parafunctional habits such as bruxism
- Pregnant or lactating women
- Psychiatric disorders that affect compliance with the study
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Day of surgery plus immediate recovery period
Participants receive surgery to cover zygomatic implants using either a palatal pedicle flap or a buccal fat pad.
1 surgical visit
Duration - Up to 6 months
Participants attend follow-up visits to monitor healing and assess soft tissue thickness over the implant collar.
Multiple follow-up visits over 6 months
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Future University in Egypt
Cairo, New Cairo, Egypt, 11835
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
W
waleed fathy associate professor of oral and maxillofacial surgery at FUE, associate professor of oral an
A
aya magdy lecturer of oral and maxillofacial surgery at FUE, LECTURER
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
DOUBLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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