Autologous platelet concentrates for bone graft enhancement in sinus lift procedure

Autologous platelet (PLT)-rich plasma has been reported in some studies to promote osteogenesis. The goal of this study was to demonstrate that osteogenesis gained by mixing autologous PLT concentrates (APCs) with a small quantity of autologous bone graft could give a sufficient quality to lead to dental implant placement. The second goal was to compare this osteogenesis with that obtained by a traditional method (iliac bone graft), through clinical, radiologic, and histologic methods. Eighteen patients needing bilateral sinus floor augmentation were enrolled. One sinus was grafted with iliac crest bone alone, and the other sinus with a small quantity of bone and APC. Panoramic view, computed tomography scan, and biopsies were performed 6 months after the initial surgery to compare ossification. The adjunction of APCs permitted a 60 percent reduction of bone graft required for sinus floor elevation. The bone obtained with APCs had the same histologic and mechanical characteristics as the bone obtained by traditional graft. Topical use of APCs might be helpful in bone reconstruction. No clinical, radiologic, or histologic osteogenesis inhibition of high PLT concentration was observed. The resulting osteogenesis was adapted to dental implant placements.