AIMS: To investigate clinical, radiographic and microbiological outcome over 12 months following open flap debridement of peri-implantitis with or without antibiotics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Peri-implantitis was surgically treated with or without Zithromax(®) in 19 control and 20 test individuals. Probing pocket depth (PPD), gingival inflammation (BOP), intra-oral radiographs and microbial samples were studied. Per protocol, and intent to treat analyzes were performed.

RESULTS: The mean difference (reduction) in PPD values between baseline and month 12 in the test and control groups were: 1.7 mm (SD ± 1.1, 95% CI: 1.1, 2.3, p < 0.001), and 1.6 mm (SD ± 1.5, 95% CI: 0.8, 2,4, p < 0.001), respectively. Data analysis failed to show study group differences for BOP, PPD, radiographic bone level, and microbial load. Succesful treatment (per protocol: PPD≤ 5 mm, no BOP, no suppuration and no bone loss ≥ 0.5 mm) at 12 months in test and control groups were 7/15 (46.7%), and 4/16 (25.0%). Bacterial load reduction was similar in study groups with a temporary reduction following treatment.

CONCLUSIONS: Surgical treatment of peri-implantitis with adjunctive systemic azithromycin did not provide one-year clinical benefits in comparison to those only receiving open flap debridement. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.