Three-dimensional reconfirmation of the gingivo-periosteal microvasculature and its angiogenesis during the healing process

Abstract

Periodontal surgical procedures are conducted largely on the basis of the angiogenic and fibrogenic activity of the periosteum. Therefore, it is considered that correlating treatment with this healing activity of the periosteum is a key to a successful outcome. The purpose of the present study was to reconfirm the periosteal microvasculature in the periodontal region, and closely observe the role of the vasculature in wound healing and its angiogenesis during the healing process by means of a vascular corrosion cast. In 30 adult mongrel dogs with healthy periodontium, the basic morphology of the periosteal vasculature was observed, with the left maxillary attached gingiva and alveolar mucosal regions serving as a control. A 6 x 6 mm incision was made in the right attached gingiva in order to remove a layer of not slear at a predetermined position, and the healing process was observed on the 5th, 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th postoperative day. A difference in histological construction between the gingiva and the alveolar mucosa was observed in the vasculature, which enabled easy distinction of muco-gingival junction from the periosteal vasculature. In addition, the fact that the gingivo-periosteal vasculature served as a base for vigorous angiogenesis associated with gingival regeneration and bone resorption and formation was made clear when a layer of partial thickness was removed.