Local application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft: a randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the effect of the application of hyaluronic acid (HA) in conjunction with free gingival graft (FGG) on postoperative patient discomfort and wound healing. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 24 healthy non-smoker patients requiring FGG were recruited for the study. Subjects were randomly assigned into study groups, local application of HA on both donor and recipient sites and control group, application of normal saline. The FGG dimensions were evaluated using digital photographs. Post-operative pain was evaluated for 14 days. Color matching and patient satisfaction were evaluated at 6 months. RESULTS: In this randomized clinical trial, 21 patients (mean age 23 years, (15 females and 6 males) completed the study. Baseline characteristics were comparable across treatment groups. Pain scores in donor sites were statistically significant and higher in control group than study group until day 7 (p < 0.05). Mean of the surface area of the graft at baseline in study vs control group were (169 +/- 21), (183 +/- 22) (2 mm), respectively. While at 6 months, were (147 +/- 30) and (139 +/- 32) (2 mm), in study and control group, respectively (p > 0.05). Color match showed no statistical significance difference. CONCLUSIONS: Topical application of HA may exhibit significant improvement of postoperative pain and no significant difference in graft dimensions and patients' satisfaction. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Topical application of HA is recommended as a dressing material in FGG surgeries to reduce postoperative pain and accelerate healing.