Buccal fat pad versus palatal rotation scarf graft for soft tissue around zygomatic implants
Buccal Pad of Fat Graft vs. Palatal Rotation Scarf Graft for Soft Tissue Enhancement and Prevention of Dehiscence Around Zygomatic Implants Placed in Patients With Severely Atrophic Maxilla: A Randomized Clinical Trial
We will test two grafting techniques—the buccal fat pad and the palatal rotation scarf—to see which better builds and stabilizes gum tissue around zygomatic implants in adults with severely atrophic upper jaws.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 8 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Cairo University Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Cairo, Giza Governorate) |
| Trial ID | NCT06968780 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study compares two soft-tissue grafting methods used during placement of zygomatic implants in patients with severely atrophic edentulous maxillae. Participants receive zygomatic implants and either a buccal fat pad graft or a palatal rotation scarf graft, and clinicians track soft tissue volume, tissue stability, and wound dehiscence over follow-up. Outcomes for tissue augmentation, complication rates, and clinical predictability will be compared between the two techniques. The aim is to identify the more reliable graft approach to support long-term success of upper-arch implant rehabilitation in challenging anatomy.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults (≥18 years) with severely atrophic, edentulous upper jaws who are medically healthy (ASA I–II), motivated, and suitable candidates for zygomatic implant surgery are ideal.
Not a fit: Patients with contraindications to implant surgery (for example prior head/neck radiation, IV bisphosphonates, uncontrolled diabetes), heavy smokers, or those unable to undergo the required surgery are unlikely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the better-performing graft could reduce soft-tissue complications, improve tissue stability, and increase the long-term success of zygomatic implants.
How similar studies have performed: Both buccal fat pad and palatal rotation grafts have been used successfully in other oral surgeries, but direct head-to-head comparisons specifically around zygomatic implants are limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Patient of age 18 years or more, who can understand and sign an informed consent. 2. Patients with severely atrophic edentulous upper arch (Cawood \& Howell class IV, V, VI) that could not be restored by standard axial implants without augmentation. 3. Patients with severely atrophic edentulous upper arch (Bedrossian classification inadequate bone in zones II or III or all three zones) that could not be restored by standard axial implants without augmentation. 4. Good systemic health (ASA score I-II) 5. Highly motivated patients with good compliance to oral hygiene habits. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Patients with cardiovascular disease or pulmonary disease or medical systemic condition that does not permit the surgical procedure under general anesthesia (ASA III, IV, V and VI). 2. Patients with conditions contraindicating implant placement (e.g.: radiation to the head and neck, intra-venous bisphosphonates, uncontrolled Diabetes mellitus). 3. Heavy smokers. (\> 20 cigarettes daily) 4. Patient with psychiatric problems, severe bruxism, or other parafunctional habits. 5. Acute maxillary sinus infection or untreated maxillary sinus cyst. 6. Malignancy or pathology in Maxilla or Zygoma.
Where this trial is running
Cairo, Giza Governorate
- Cairo University — Cairo, Giza Governorate, Egypt (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Khaled M Allam, DDS
- Email: khaled-allam@dentistry.cu.edu.eg
- Phone: +201122189816
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.