Cryosurgical treatment of gingival melanin pigmentation with tetrafluoroethane

Objective To introduce 1,1,1,2 tetrafluoroethane (TFE), as a new material for cryosurgery of gingival melanin pigmentation (GMP). Study design Twenty-one patients with GMP were treated using a TFE-cooled cotton swab. Standard digital images of pigmented areas were measured preoperatively and postope...

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Published in:Oral surgery, oral medicine, oral pathology, oral radiology and endodontics oral medicine, oral pathology, oral radiology and endodontics, 2007-04, Vol.103 (4), p.452-457
Main Authors: Arikan, Fatih, DDS, PhD, Gürkan, Ali, DDS, PhD
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adolescent
Adult
Biological and medical sciences
Cryosurgery - methods
Dentistry
Dermatologic Agents - therapeutic use
Female
Fluorocarbons - therapeutic use
Gingival Diseases - surgery
Humans
Image Processing, Computer-Assisted
Medical sciences
Middle Aged
Otorhinolaryngology. Stomatology
Pigmentation Disorders - surgery
Recurrence
Smoking
Statistics, Nonparametric
Surgery
Treatment Outcome
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Summary:Objective To introduce 1,1,1,2 tetrafluoroethane (TFE), as a new material for cryosurgery of gingival melanin pigmentation (GMP). Study design Twenty-one patients with GMP were treated using a TFE-cooled cotton swab. Standard digital images of pigmented areas were measured preoperatively and postoperatively with image-analyzing software. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for statistical analysis. Results Keratinization was completed 3 to 4 weeks after application, without any trace of pigmentation. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between preoperative and postoperative measurements of pigmented areas ( P < .05). During the follow-up period, no side effects were observed and improved esthetics were maintained up to month 30. Conclusions The clinical outcomes of cryosurgery with TFE for treatment of GMP are very satisfactory. The use of TFE for cryosurgical treatment of GMP is practical and inexpensive. Moreover, unlike other cryosurgery methods no special equipment is required, and it is safe to store in the dental clinic.
ISSN:1079-2104
1528-395X
DOI:10.1016/j.tripleo.2006.08.008