WHALE TAIL TECHNIQUE- A literature review.

Bone grafts are commonly used to treat periodontal bone abnormalities. Studies indicate that using graft materials in directed tissue regeneration is effective. However, treating deep and extensive bony defects can result in a large area that lacks blood flow from the periodontal ligament or alveolar bone. This poses a risk of wound failure when an incision of the defect-associated papilla is performed. (17) Bianchi and Basetti developed a new surgical technique called the "Whale's Tail" to address this issue. This approach can effectively regenerate broad intrabony defects in the esthetic zone while preserving interdental tissues over grafting material. The proposed procedure entails the elevation of a sizeable flap from the buccal to the palatal side, thereby providing an unobstructed view and access to the intrabony defect in question. (8) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]