J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(7), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17070328

Original Title: Soft Tissue Healing After Post-Extractive Alveolar Ridge Reconstruction Using a Magnesium Membrane-Based Regenerative Approach: A Preliminary Study – Ilham Mounssif, Claudio Mazzotti, Valentina Bentivogli, Francesco Bondi, Diego Bianchelli, Matteo Sangiorgi, Giovanni Zucchelli and Martina Stefanini – Italy

This study provides first evidence that alveolar ridge reconstruction using NOVAMag^® SHIELD as part of a combined regenerative approach with cerabone^® +HyA  and mucoderm^® results in favorable soft-tissue healing at 6-month follow-up. WHI (Wound Healing index) scores increased steadily from the first postoperative week, achieving excellent healing in all patients by three months and remaining stable thereafter. Patient-reported pain and quality-of-life outcomes remained favorable throughout the observation period.

AIM

Aim of the study was to evaluate the soft tissue healing after post-extractive alveolar ridge reconstruction using a resorbable pure magnesium solution (NOVAMag^® SHIELD) combined with cerabone^® +HyA and mucoderm^®. The study specifically assessed mucosal healing using the Wound Healing Index (WHI) and also evaluated postoperative pain and oral health-related quality of life (via VAS scale and OHIP-14).

STUDY RESULTS

This prospective observational pilot study enrolled 5 patients requiring tooth extraction and delayed implant placement. The alveolar ridge reconstruction was performed in a combined approach using NOVAMag^® SHIELD together with cerabone^® +HyA and mucoderm^®. Follow-up check-ups were done 7, 14, 30, 90, and 180 days after surgery. Primary outcomes included assessment of the soft tissue healing assessed using the Wound Healing Index (WHI); secondary outcome variables were postoperative pain (VAS scale) and oral health-related quality of life (OHIP-14).

RESULTS

SOFT TISSUE HEALING

The mean WHI score was 4.4 ± 0.8 at 7 days and increased to 4.8 ± 0.4 at 14 days. It then reached 5.0 ± 0.0 (excellent healing) by 90 days and excellent healing was maintained through the 180-day follow-up.

Only one patient experienced partial wound dehiscence (membrane exposure), but the wound healed spontaneously. No infection, graft loss, flap necrosis, or membrane removal was required. Complete epithelialization was achieved during follow-up.

PATIENT-REPORTED OUTCOMES

The mean pain score (VAS) at 7 days was 1.86 ± 1.89 cm, indicating minimal postoperative pain. The mean OHIP-14 score was 20.8 ± 5.23, indicating only a moderate and temporary impact on quality of life. No serious adverse events related to the biomaterials or surgical procedure were reported.

CONLUSION

This pilot study suggests that alveolar ridge reconstruction using NOVAMag^® SHIELD as part of a combined regenerative approach with cerabone^® +HyA and mucoderm^® is clinically feasible and supports favorable soft tissue healing. mucoderm^® likely provided a protective biological interface that shielded wound margins from mechanical irritation and supported re-epithelialization, potentially contributing to the favorable WHI scores from day 7. cerabone^® +HyA maintained socket volume and stabilized the clot, indirectly supporting wound closure, while NOVAMag^® SHIELD fulfilled its space-maintaining and GBR barrier function while generating a locally favorable microenvironment through progressive degradation.

Healing progressed consistently, with all patients showing excellent mucosal healing by 3 months and maintaining stable results at 6 months. Even one single case of wound dehiscence healed without complications. Patient discomfort was low, and quality-of-life impact was temporary.