Inflammatory mediator release following bone grafting in humans: A pilot study

Aim: The aim of this pilot study was to track markers of periodontal inflammation and bone resorption associated with decalcified freeze-dried bone allografts. Material and Methods: Eleven subjects completed standardized treatment of intrabony defects ≥3 mm with allografts. Gingival crevicular fluid was collected from the defect site and an adjacent interproximal site within the surgical field at baseline, 2, 4, and 8 weeks post-operatively, and analysed for biochemical markers of inflammation/bone resorption. Probing depth, recession, bleeding on probing, plaque, and 6-month radiographic bone height change were measured. Results: Both prostaglandin E₂ (p=0.007) and bone-specific type 1 collagen (p=0.01) increased in crevicular fluid after 2 weeks in the bone graft sites. Matrix metalloproteinase-9 levels remained constant over time. There were positive correlations between prostaglandin levels during the first 8 weeks and bone height change over 6 months. Conclusions: Periodontal bone grafts stimulate an inflammatory response during the first 2 weeks post-operatively, and the potential negative effects of inhibiting prostaglandins post-operatively should be investigated further.