Clinical technique note
A periosteal releasing incision is a surgical technique used to help advance the buccal flap for tension-free closure. This content is intended for trained dental and surgical professionals and should be applied only with proper clinical judgment.
Quick PRI Checklist
- Raise a full-thickness buccal flap
- Stabilize the flap with gentle traction
- Release the periosteum carefully
- Advance the flap coronally without excessive tension
- Preserve flap integrity and avoid perforation
PRI technique overview
- Raise the flap: Raise a full-thickness flap on the buccal side to expose the entire defect.
- Stabilize the flap: Hold the buccal flap with tissue forceps and apply gentle traction.
- Begin the release: Carefully release the periosteum using an appropriate surgical blade, with incision depth controlled according to flap thickness and tissue anatomy.
- Advance the flap: Make a superficial releasing incision with a continuous brushing movement from distal to mesial. The goal is to allow coronal flap advancement while reducing the risk of flap perforation.
Important surgical reminder
The objective is to gain flap mobility while preserving tissue integrity and avoiding perforation. Technique, incision depth, flap thickness, tissue quality, and defect anatomy should all be evaluated by the clinician during the procedure.
Source attribution
Marco Ronda, M.D., D.D.S., Private Practice, Genova, Italy
Claudio Stacchi, D.D.S., M.Sc., Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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