A Novel Approach Using 15% Natural Chitosan Gel 
in the Management of Intrabony Defects: A Pilot Study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of 15% chitosan in gel form as a periodontal regenerative material in the periodontal intrabony defects.

METHODS: A pilot study split-mouth design of 10 patients within the age group of 30 to 55 years with bilateral intrabony defects ≥ 3mm and clinical attachment levels (CAL) ≥ 5mm were selected. The test site received open flap debridement with 15% Chitosan gel as a regenerative material and the controlateral side that acted as a control received only open flap debridement. Clinical and radiographic measurements were recorded at baseline, and 3, 6 and 9 months after the treatment.

RESULTS: Data revealed that there was a significant improvement in both clinical and radiographic parameters when intragroup comparison was performed. When intergroup comparison was done, there was a mean difference in CAL (5.8 ± 1.398 mm) and the depth of the intrabony defect (3.41 ± 1.17 mm) at 9 months when compared to baseline.

CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of the study, it can be concluded that a 15% concentration of chitosan gel is a promising aid and could be used as an effective material in periodontal regeneration.