Oliver, R, Loe, H, Karring, T. Microscopic evaluation of the healing and revascularization of free gingival grafts. J. Perio. Res. 3:84, 1968

The objective was to study the healing and revascularization of the free gingival graft the microscopic level. 7 rhesus monkeys were used. Grafts were placed at the max. or mand. anterior area, and donor site from premolar area. Dressing and stents placed for protection. Animals received 100 mg. Terramycin IM then for 6 days. Sacrifice occurred on 0, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 11, 14, 17, 21, 28, and 42 days. Dye was injected prior to sacrifice.

Healing was divided into 3 phases

• The initial Phase- (0-3 days) graft and periosteum separated by a thin fibrin layer. plasmatic circulation occurring. degeneration of graft epithelium, Leukocytes were present within the degenerated epithelium.
• Revascularization Phase (4-11 days)- 4th day capillary budding occurring into the graft. Minimal resorption of alveolar crest. 4th day fibroblast migrated between the graft and periosteum, by the 11th day there was a union. New marginal gingiva formed from the periodontal ligament. periosteum, attached gingiva, papilla. 5th day graft epithelium degenerated, 11th day epithelium covered the graft and was continuous w/ marginal epithelium.
• Tissue Maturation Phase (11-42 days)- At the 14 day there was a reduction of the number of vessels. 14 day there was increased density and orientation of connective tissue fibers. Keratinization apparent at 28 days. Healing virtually complete at 14 days.

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