Comparison of pedicled buccal fat pad flap with buccal flap for closure of oro-antral communication.

The aim of this study was to compare the clinical results of pedicled buccal fat pad flap (PBFPF) with the standard buccal flap in the closure of oro-antral fistula (OAF). Twenty-two patients aged 25-56 years with oro-antral communication were randomly divided into two groups using Rand List 1.2 software. In group 1, OAF was treated with the classic buccal sliding flap and in group 2 a pedicled buccal fat pad was used. All patients were visited 48 h, 1 week and 1 month after surgery for assessment of primary (success of surgery) and secondary outcomes (pain, swelling, maximum mouth opening (MMO) reduction). Both methods were equally successful for the closure of OAF. The pain score was statistically greater in the experimental group (U=9, P=0.001). MMO was statistically less in the experimental group 2 and 7 days after surgery (P<0.001). 1 month after surgery, no statistically significant difference was found in MMO between the two groups (P=0.09). In general, the PBFPF group had more pronounced swelling than the control group. Despite the statistical evidence, none of the patients complained of pain and swelling following the PBFPF procedure.

Temporary eyelash loss following dental treatment.

The isolated absence or loss of eyelashes (madarosis) is associated with many processes including systemic and local diseases. Madarosis of dental origin has not been reported. This paper is a report of the successful treatment of unilateral eyelash loss following root canal therapy of an upper posterior tooth.

Comparison of ultrasonography with submentovertex films and computed tomography scan in the diagnosis of zygomatic arch fractures.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare ultrasonography with CT scan and submentovertex films in the visualization of zygomatic arch fractures. METHODS: 17 patients, 10 men and 7 women, with suspected fracture of the zygomatic arch were studied. The data from CT and plain films were compared with the ultrasonographic findings (Aloka 3500 (Tokyo, Japan) ultrasound equipment with a 7.5 MHz transducer). The probe was situated over the fractured arch transversely to evaluate its whole length. All of the sonograms were taken and interpreted by the same sonologist, who was not aware of the results of the CT and the plain films. RESULTS: Ultrasound was accurate in assessing the fractured arches with sensitivity of 88.2% (15 of the 17 patients, with two false negatives) and specificity of 100% (no false positives). CONCLUSION: Ultrasound is accurate in the visualization of zygomatic arch fractures and can be used as an adjunct to plain films to reduce the overall radiation exposure.