Reconstruction of Cystic Defects with Resorbable Membranes and “Shoelace” Sutures: A Case Series

Abstract

Radicular cysts are one of the most commonly occurring cysts in the jaw, with an occurrence rate of 54.6% amongst odontogenic cysts. After removal of the cyst, there tends to be a large bony defect, resulting in a buccal concavity, especially when the buccal cortex has been eroded by the cyst. This compromises aesthetic outcomes where prosthodontics rehabilitation is considered in the future. Here we describe two cases of reconstruction of cystic defects with resorbable membranes, supported by a stable framework of “shoelace” sutures, with the objective of improving hard and soft tissue healing with minimal buccal collapse. This technique is useful in supporting resorbable membranes placed above the defect and can potentially reduce the extent of hard and soft tissue deficiency.