A Comparative Analysis of Collagen Fiber and Adipose Content in the Connective Tissue Procured from Different Harvesting Sites Using Different Harvesting Techniques: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Soft tissue augmentation procedures using connective tissue grafts (CTGs) produce varied outcomes due to differences in the histological composition of grafts from different sites and techniques. This study aimed to compare the histologic composition of CTG harvested by de-epithelization vs. a single-incision technique from the palate.

Methods: Forty-five subjects (aged 25-45) scheduled for mucogingival surgeries were divided into 3 groups: Group I (de-epithelialized free gingival graft), Group II (maxillary tuberosity graft), and Group III (single-incision technique). A 2 x 2 mm tissue sample was taken from the antero-superior part of the graft and analyzed using hematoxylin & eosin or Picrosirius red staining to assess collagen and adipose content under a polarizing microscope.

Results: Preoperative donor site thickness was greater in Group II than in Groups I and III (P < .001). Collagen area and bundle thickness were significantly higher in Group I compared to Groups II and III (P < .05, P < .001). Adipose tissue content was higher in Group III. Epithelium remnants were observed in 66.67%, 80%, and 13.3% of Groups I, II, and III, respectively (P < .05).

Conclusion: Fibrous tissue content was higher in superficial mucosal tissues, while deeper palatal tissues showed more adipose tissue.

Cite this article as: Narayan I, Baron TKA, Shah R, Thomas R, Cheruvathoor JG, Gowda TM. A comparative analysis of collagen fiber and adipose content in the connective tissue procured from different harvesting sites using different harvesting techniques: A cross-sectional study. Essent Dent. 2025, 4, 0012, doi: 10.5152/EssentDent.2025.25012.