Platelet-rich fibrin in dentistry

Abstract

Platelet concentrates were originally used for the treatment and prevention of hemorrhage due to severe thrombopenia, which is often caused by medullar aplasia, acute leukemia, or significant blood loss during long-lasting surgery. The standard platelet concentrate for transfusion has been named platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), first described by Choukroun et al., is a new second generation of platelet concentrate. Choukroun et al. were one of the pioneers for using PRF protocol in oral and maxillofacial surgery to improve bone healing, especially in implant dentistry. PRF is a fibrin matrix with platelets, cytokines, growth factors, and trapped cells that may be released after a certain time. Simplified processing technique without any complex handling makes it superior to PRP. PRF can be used to promote wound healing, bone regeneration, graft stabilization, wound sealing, and hemostasis. Since the fibrin matrix is better organized, it is able to more efficiently direct stem cell migration and the healing program. PRF is considered to be a healing biomaterial, and presently, many studies have shown success in its application in various disciplines of dentistry.