Addition of enamel matrix derivatives to bone substitutes for the treatment of intrabony defects: A systematic review, meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

Aim: In order to enhance clinical improvement of intrabony defects, the addition of enamel matrix derivatives (EMD) to bone substitues (BS) has been investigated. The aim of this systematic review is to figure out whether such a combination, in comparison to the treatment with BS alone has beneficial effects on the following outcomes: clinical attachment level (CAL) gain, probing depth (PD) reduction and recession (REC). Methods: Electronic databases (PUBMED, SCOPUS, EBSCO Host Research Databases and Web of Knowledge) were searched for randomized controlled trials in humans addressing the use of a combination of BS and EMD versus a control group with BS alone for the treatment of intrabony defects, with a minimum of 6 months of follow-up; meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis were then performed. Results: From a total of 1,197 records screened by title and abstract, nine studies were read full-text and five out of them included in the meta-analysis. No significant differences have been demonstrated both for CAL gain, PD reduction and REC between test and control groups. Conclusions: In the treatment of intrabony defects, the addition of EMD to BS seems to be not beneficial in terms of CAL gain, PD reduction and REC changes. However, such results should be considered with caution because of the small number of studies included in the meta-analysis and their heterogeneity.