SEM analyses of bacterial contamination of e-PTFE membranes and GTR clinical results.

The aim of the present study was to determine whether bacterial contamination of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (e-PTFE) membranes and the degree of membrane exposure could affect the clinical results of guided tissue regeneration (GTR). Seven patients (aged 42 to 58 years) presented with twenty intrabony defects that were treated by GTR + DFDBA (decalcified freeze-dried bone allograft). Gingival recession, probing depths, and clinical attachment levels were recorded before surgery and 10 months subsequently.