The Use of a Xenogeneic Collagen Matrix as an Interpositional Soft‐Tissue Graft to Enhance Peri‐Implant Soft‐Tissue Outcomes: A Clinical Case Report and Histologic Analysis

Introduction: Keratinized and dense peri‐implant soft tissue around implants has been associated with better tissue health, less bone loss, and improved esthetics. The purpose of this case report is to evaluate a new, xenogeneic collagen matrix (CM) as an interpositional soft‐tissue graft to enhance peri‐implant soft‐tissue thickness. To our knowledge, this is the first such case report to include soft‐tissue biopsies and histologic analysis. Case Presentation: After extraction and bone grafting of a mandibular left first molar, the patient received a dental implant, and CM was used as an interpositional soft‐tissue graft. Clinical healing was uneventful, and the impression of enhanced soft‐tissue volume/thickness was observed. At 10 weeks, biopsies were taken from the operative site and from a contralateral, non‐operated site. Histologic assessment of the operative site demonstrated normal squamous epithelium and lamina propria. Tissue growing into the residual CM also appeared normal, with no inflammatory cells seen in the graft area. Vascular blood vessels were observed growing into the matrix. Control and test sites were comparable. Conclusions: This case report and the first examination of a human biopsy around a dental implant demonstrate that CM holds promise as an effective, time‐efficient, and reduced morbidity alternative to autogenous graft harvest for the promotion of peri‐implant soft‐tissue thickness. CM was easy to handle, place, and suture, and histologic analysis indicated a benign tissue response resulting in an organized and attached connective tissue similar to native, undisturbed periodontal tissue.