Closure of an Oroantral Communication Using Leucocyte-Platelet Rich Fibrin: A Novel Technique Using Regenerative Medicine

Abstract

Oroantral communication (OAC) is a common complication following extraction of maxillary posterior teeth because of the close anatomic proximity of the roots to the maxillary sinus. The most frequent methods described in the literature to close an oroantral communication involve buccal or palatal rotational advancement flap surgery or use of the buccal fat pad. These surgical procedures require advanced surgical skill and are associated with donor sit morbidity, such as avascular flap necrosis that can lead to soft tissue graft failure to close the OAC, infection and extreme postoperative patient discomfort that affects patient quality of life. This paper describes a novel technique using leucocyte platelet-rich fibrin matrix obtained from the patient’s own venous blood that leads to predictable soft tissue regeneration and closure of the OAC. This regenerative medicine procedure is clinician friendly, less traumatic compared to traditional methods of OAC closure with minimal postoperative recovery for the patient.