Effect of systemic tetracycline on the degradation of tetracycline-impregnated bilayered collagen membranes: an animal study.

Background: Premature collagen membrane degradation may compromise the outcome of osseous regenerative procedures. Tetracyclines (TTCs) inhibit the catalytic activities of human metalloproteinases. Preprocedural immersion of collagen membranes in TTC and systemic administration of TTC may be possible alternatives to reduce the biodegradation of native collagen membranes.