Secured Anatomy-Driven Flap Extension (SAFE) for Guided Bone Regeneration: A Modified Flap Release Technique Description and Retrospective Study

Current flap-releasing designs for guided bone regeneration (GBR) emphasize preserving subperiosteal microvasculature by adapting a deep-slit approach, separating the periosteum from the flap. Although biologically sound, a biomechanical disadvantage may be encountered. This study aimed to describe a modified design, the Secured Anatomy-driven Flap Extension (SAFE) technique, for effective facial flap release and to preliminarily evaluate the clinical outcomes of this technique retrospectively. Chart reviews were conducted to identify patients treated by facial flap release in staged GBR procedures between May 2020 and March 2022. The anatomical, biological, and biomechanical rationale of this technique were described. The following clinical data were collected: intraoperative and postoperative complications, initial and final horizontal ridge width before and 5–6 months after the GBR, and implant performance. A total of 10 patients were identified. At baseline, these patients presented with a mean ridge width of 2.05 ± 0.52 mm. No intraoperative and postoperative complications were observed in these patients (bleeding, wound opening, neurosensory disturbance, etc.) at the 2–3-week follow-up visit. At the re-entry, a mean ridge width of 6.50 ± 0.55 mm was measured (P < .01), resulting in a mean of 4.45 ± 0.65 mm ridge width gain. Twenty-one implants were successfully placed, integrated, and in function without signs/symptoms of peri-implantitis after a mean 21.5 ± 9.2 months follow-up period. Preliminary results suggest that the SAFE technique is a safe and predictable approach for releasing facial flaps during GBR procedures.