Procedure

Barrier membrane

Description

The membrane provides a barrier to prevent the growth of connective tissue and epithelial cells, and creates a stable space under the membrane, allowing preferential growth of osteoblasts.

Indication

Reconstruction of bone defects with bone grafts.

Possible Side Effects

• Placement of a barrier membrane and bone graft is an operation. Complications such as bleeding, swelling and local infection may occur.
• The barrier membrane, though small, may be exposed outside the wound. If the wound is carefully cared for, the operation can still achieve the desired results.

Postoperative Care

• Slight bleeding in the wound post-surgery is a normal phenomenon and patients need not be alarmed.
• Please allow time post-surgery for the anesthetic to subside before eating and chewing, so as to avoid biting the lips and tongue.
• Avoid irritants (tobacco, alcohol, betel nut, spicy) and hard or hot foods for one week post-surgery. Avoid the use of drinking straws.
• Rinse your mouth gently after eating to clean the wound and prevent inflammation. Brush your teeth in the area outside the wound, but be careful not to touch the wound. Never rinse your mouth or spit forcefully.
• Symptoms of swelling and pain are most intense for 2 days post-operation. Intermittently apply a compress (20 minutes for ice compress, 20 minutes for rest) with ice cubes to the operation site to ease the pain and swelling.
• At the return visit one week after the operation, the wound will be examined and the stitches removed. Avoid applying pressure to the wound (e.g. tongue licking, finger compression) and disturbing wound healing and postoperative bone growth.
• If sinus augmentation is performed during the operation, avoid sneezing and blowing your nose too hard. Avoid smoking or swimming for a period of one week post-operation.
• If the barrier membrane is exposed outside the wound, it should still be cleaned to avoid infection.
• Please learn to take care of the wound post-surgery. If you have any questions, please consult your doctor.