Efficacy of collagen-silicone bilayer membrane in the management of oral submucous fibrosis: a prospective case series

Background and objective Oral submucous fibrosis is a scourge of Southeastern Asia since a long time resulting in significant health and social problems. Mainstay of the treatment is concentrated on attempts to improve mouth opening and relieve the symptoms by medicinal or surgical means. In moderate to severe cases, release of fibrous bands is advocated followed by placement of graft. The present study was conducted to evaluate the use of collagen-silicone bilayer membrane as a mucosal substitute in its management. Methodology Study consisted of 12 clinically and histologically proven cases of OSMF. After the incision and release of fibrous bands, a collagen membrane was placed and secured over the raw area by placement of a silicone sheet of adequate thickness. Parameters were assessed pre-operatively, intra-operatively, and post-operatively at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months. The data was recorded and statistical analysis was done. Results Pre-operatively, the mean values of inter-incisal opening, cheek flexibility, and width of oral commissure were 16.92, 24.58, and 53.17 mm respectively whereas at 3 months post-operatively, it was 27.67, 26.58, and 55.00 mm, which was statistically significant. No incidence of infection was noted. Conclusion The study concludes that the use of collagen membrane along with silicone sheet can be an alternative to other graft materials in context of reduced donor site morbidity as well as significant increase in inter-incisal opening. However, study with more sample size is needed to assess the long-term efficiency and surgical outcome of this material.