Q. Explain about S-Shaped incision for a mini pedicle flap?
The S - shaped incision is indicated where a papilla needs to be developed and was first described by Palacci. This type of incision is essentially designed to create a small pedicle flap, which is repositioned into the interdental area. For multiple implants placed unilaterally the pedicel flaps are designed to position the pedicle on the mesial aspect of the implant. The height of the ridge, the interdental space and thickness of the tissue influence the width of the pedicle. After attachment of the abutment the S-shaped incision started on its distal aspect. The clinician should be able to visualize the final position of the pedicle flap on the mesial aspect of the abutment. The first part of the incision is full thickness and the second part is a split - thickness incision of the periosteum, carried out sub-epithelially. This provides mobility for the pedicle flap without creating a cleft within the marginal epithelium. The first pedicle should be positioned within.
The interdental space to accurately assess the starting point for the incision around the second abutment. On completion of the second incision and positioning of the pedicles the flap will lose spontaneously distal to the second implant. The S-shaped incision can also be carried out bilaterally around a single abutment, as long as there is sufficient soft tissue present.