Surgical Tip of the Week #10 - Envelope Flap

PreviousNext

ENVELOPE FLAP

There are many flap designs recommended for the removal of impacted third molars. Western Surgical and Sedation’s STOW will discuss four different flap designs: envelope, triangle, modified triangle, and “S” flap. The most commonly recommended flaps are the envelope and triangle. No flap is perfect for all situations.

The initial incision for a mandibular envelope starts 1-1.5 cm distal to the second molar and ends near the central groove of the second molar. The incision starts on the buccal near the external oblique ridge and can be extended as needed for access. DO NOT place incisions directly distal to the second molar. Never place incisions or use instruments on the lingual of the surgical site. You may cause lingual nerve paresthesia.

Maxillary envelope flap incisions start in the hamular notch distal to the tuberosity and end between the central groove and distal buccal cusp of the second molar. Mandibular and maxillary envelope flaps should end distal to the second premolar. The papilla between the first molar and second premolar is included in the flap. One suture distal to the second molar is usually sufficient for closure.

Surgical Tip of the Week #14 – 7 Steps for Predictable Removal of Mandibular Third Molar Impactions

STEP 1 FLAP Many flap designs will work. The two most popular flaps for impacted third molars are the triangular and envelope. Western Surgical and Sedation recommends a large envelope flap starting distal to the second premolar (including papilla) and ending 1-1.5 cm...

Surgical Tip of the Week #13 – “S” Flap

"S" FLAP There are many flap designs recommended for the removal of impacted third molars. Western Surgical and Sedation’s STOW will discuss four different flap designs: envelope, triangle, modified triangle, and “S” flap. The most commonly recommended flaps are the...

Surgical Tip of the Week #12 – Modified Triangle Flap

MODIFIED TRIANGLE FLAP There are many flap designs recommended for the removal of impacted third molars. Western Surgical and Sedation’s STOW will discuss four different flap designs: envelope, triangle, modified triangle, and “S” flap. The most commonly recommended...

Surgical Tip of the Week #11 – Triangular Flap

TRIANGULAR FLAP There are many flap designs recommended for the removal of impacted third molars. Western Surgical and Sedation’s STOW will discuss four different flap designs: envelope, triangle, modified triangle, and “S” flap. The most commonly recommended flaps...