ABSTRACT
Aim: To investigate the healing process following use of collagen sponges in the dental socket after extraction. Wound complications during the study were also evaluated. Methods: 32 cats wereincluded in this study. IV administration of the combination of diazepam (0.22 mg/kg) and ketamine(10 mg/kg) was used to induce general anesthesia. Surgical extraction of both 3rd mandibular premolars was performed. The open dental sockets were divided in two groups. In Group A, theopen dental socket on the left side was closed using 4-0 Monocryl in simple interrupted pattern. In Group B, the right dental socket was filled with lyophilized hydrolyzed collagen and the buccal andlingual flaps were sutured using 4-0 Monocryl and simple interrupted pattern. Meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg) was used to manage the post-extraction pain in all cats. Ampicilline 20 mg/kg was used asprophylaxis. The wounds were observed during the study to evaluate any signs of inflammationor dehiscence. Radiographs were taken to compare healing of the socket 3 weeks after theprocedure. A 1 mm biopsy punch sample was taken from sockets in all cats for comparison of the healing in both groups. Results: Hemorrhage occurred only in the sockets of Group A. Remissionof radiolucent area occurred in both groups. Mean score of inflammation was lower and meanscores of fibrotic reaction and fibroplasia were higher in Group B (p<0.05). Conclusions: Use ofhemosponge in alveolar socket may accelerate fibroplasia and formation of the connective tissueand reduce inflammation after tooth extraction. Therefore, post-extraction use of the hemostaticagent in the dental socket is recommended.
