TILAPIA SKIN (OREOCHROMIS NILOTICUS) IN THE REPAIR AND PROTECTION OF THE PALATAL SURGICAL BED AFTER AUTOGENOUS GRAFT REMOVAL: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

The removal of autogenous palatal grafts is widely used in reconstructive periodontal surgeries to restore the anatomy and functionality of gingival tissues; however, it may cause pain, bleeding, discomfort, and postoperative morbidity due to healing by secondary intention at the donor site. Therefore, alternatives are sought to reduce these effects and promote faster and more comfortable repair. Nile tilapia skin (Oreochromis niloticus) has emerged as a promising biomaterial due to its high concentration of type I collagen, as well as mechanical strength, elasticity, biocompatibility, low antigenicity, sustainability, and low cost. This study analyzed scientific evidence regarding the use of tilapia skin as an occlusive biological dressing for the protection and repair of the palatal surgical bed after autogenous graft removal, considering its structural properties, clinical performance, and advantages compared with conventional dressings. The literature review was conducted using the PubMed, SciELO, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, and BVS databases, employing descriptors in Portuguese and English, following inclusion and exclusion criteria for publications from 2015 to 2025. The studies indicate that tilapia skin promotes faster epithelialization, reduces postoperative discomfort, effectively protects the surgical bed, improves aesthetic outcomes, and presents no relevant complications. Moreover, its versatility allows application in different forms, such as membranes, sponges, and hydrogels. Thus, tilapia skin represents a safe, effective, and promising alternative for regenerative dentistry, although more robust clinical studies are needed to standardize protocols and expand its use in surgical practice.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2025.036-149