Advantage: Ability to maintain separation of tissues over an extended time. Unless the barrier is exposed, it can remain in place for several months to years. Typically, GBR membranes are removed after 6 to 12 months.

require a subsequent surgical procedure to remove them

expanded polytetrafluoroethylene membrane (ePTFE)

if it becomes exposed, it will not heal (i.e., wound will remain open) spontaneously and may become progressively more exposed

regenerate bone without the need for bone grafts or tenting apparatus

No surgical reentry for membrane removal is necessary

less likely to become exposed and are less problematic if they do become exposed.

mild inflammatory reaction caused by bioresorbable membranes does not seem to interfere with osteogenesis.

cross-linking of collagen to increase resistance to biodegradation and thus increase longevity of the barrier function