Comparison between Modified Triangular Flap and Envelop Flap Techniques for Surgical Removal of Impacted Mandibular Third Molar

Objective: To compare postoperative outcomes in surgical extraction of mandibular third molar with envelop flap versus modified triangular flap.

Setting & Duration: Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Unit at Faculty of Dentistry, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences Jamshoro. Study period was from January 2021 to December 2021.

Subject and Methods: A set of 60 individuals were sequentially assigned 30 to the Group A envelop flap and 30 to the Group B modified triangular flap for surgical removal of the mandibular third molar tooth. The demographic and clinical parameters was identified and recorded in proforma. The discomfort, swelling, and restricted mouth opening linked with an impacted mandibular third tooth are all assessed prior to surgery. The flap pattern employed for the extraction of the impacted lower third molar tooth, pain, and mouth opening was all reported on the proforma at the end of the procedure. On the seventh postoperative day, each patient was evaluated again.

Results: - The average age of patients in group A was 29.77±7.17 years and 28.20±6.28 years in group B. Mean pain score was significantly low in group A as compare to group B [0.87±0.86 vs. 2.93±0.87 p=0.0005]. Mean mouth opening was significantly high in group A than group B [12.86±3.59 vs. 6.12±1.67; p=0.0005].

Conclusion: In comparison to the envelope flap, the modified triangular flap was more effective when considering the postoperative periodontal state of the surrounding third molar and the dehiscence after wound recovery.