Frequently asked questions about Inion^® GTR^TM Biodegradable Membrane System

They are made of an Inion Optima^TM blend of rigid and elastic polymers selected for their strength, malleability and degradation properties. The polymers in the Inion GTR^TM Biodegradable Membrane System are:

The plasticiser is used to soften the membrane for ease of implantation.
The membrane becomes soft and pliable and can be easily adapted to the defect morhology. 

The key difference is that the membrane becomes stiff when implanted. This allows the space under the membrane to be maintained so that more bone volume can be generated.

The size of Inion GTR^TM Biodegradable Membrane is large enough to cover all types of defects and can be cut using scissors to the required size. This makes a large inventory of different shapes and sizes unnecessary. For ease of trimming special templates are included in the membrane package.

The Inion GTR^TM membranes and tacks are tailored to fully biodegrade within one to two years. The barrier function of the membrane to exclude gingival cells from the defect site is maintained for 8-12 weeks, thereafter the membrane starts to break down and biodegrade

The Inion GTR™ membrane degrades by hydrolysis and over time is metabolised through natural processes in the body into carbon dioxide and water, which are then exhaled and excreted.

No, once the package has been opened the products may be contaminated and a successful re-sterilisation cannot be guaranteed. In addition, the re-sterilisation negatively affects the degradation behaviour of the implants.

Yes. The membrane can be fastened either with tacks or with biodegradable suture materials using a non-cutting needle. The material possesses excellent tear strength, allowing for proper suture fixation.

No. The ingredients in the plasticiser have been extensively tested and found to be safe and non-toxic. In addition, the concentration of plasticizer is so little that it cannot evoke any adverse reactions.

The membrane begins to stiffen as soon as it is exposed to water, saline or saliva. 50% of the maximum stiffness is reached one minute after exposure and reaches full rigidity 30 minutes.

Overexposure of the Inion GTR^TM to the plasticiser will affect its mechanical properties. It will become softer and may ultimately break when tension is applied.

The membrane has to be soaked in the plasticizer for 20 seconds, then dried or "set" in the blister for 5-10 minutes. Imemdiately after the membrane should be briefly rinsed with water and is then ready for use.

If the dehiscience is reasonably small and there are no signs of inflammation with the membrane remaining intact, the membrane does not need to be removed. The membrane exposure will only insignificantly influence the degradation behaviour. Inion recommends increasing the frequency of   wound inspection frequency, if such a dehiscence occurs, and to apply appropriate infection control.

Inion is not aware of any adverse reactions when using autologous bone graft or bone graft substitute in combination with the membrane.

Yes. It is possible to use more than one preshaped membrane per surgery. However, Inion recommends that membranes do not overlap.

The Inion GTR^TM Membrane System is also indicated for bone augmentation around dental implants. Due to its outstanding space maintenance properties excellent bone volume gain may be achieved.

The H-shape template can be used for interproximal defects, the U-shape for intraosseous or distal defects and the "Apron-form" for dehiscence, receding and furcation defects.

Yes. The membrane has been used successfully in both guided tissue regeneration and guided bone regeneration procedures. Inion is currently also undertaking further controlled studies.

You can expect bone to grow at least as fast as with other membranes. However, ultimate results depend on a variety of factors which need to be assessed prior to surgery. The success of bone generation is verified by probing at follow up. Early animal study results indicate an acceleration of bone growth due to specific formulation of the membrane. Further research hereto is ongoing.