Histological and Clinical Evaluation of De-epithelialized Connective Tissue Grafts Obtained by Different Methods

This randomized controlled clinical study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of two different de-epithelialization techniques-extraoral scalpel and intraoral radiofrequency (RF)-used in the preparation of de-epithelialized connective tissue grafts (De-CTG) for the treatment of gingival recession. A total of 48 patients were randomly assigned into two groups, and all grafts were applied in combination with coronally advanced flap (CAF) surgery. Clinical and histological outcomes, including epithelial remnants, root coverage, keratinized tissue gain, surgical duration, and postoperative patient comfort, were assessed. The study seeks to identify a reliable, operator-independent method that minimizes epithelial remnants and improves clinical outcomes and patient experience.