Platelet-rich fibrin to preserve alveolar bone sockets following tooth extraction: A randomized controlled trial

Background Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) can be used in the alveolar socket preservation (ARP). However, the hard tissue-regeneration property of PRF in alveolar socket preservation is still unclear. Purpose To compare the new bone formation ratio between using PRF as a socket preservation material and normal wound healing, by means of histomorphometric analysis. Materials and methods Thirty-three healthy volunteers were recruited and randomized into PRF and control group. Minimally traumatic extractions were performed. Eighteen patients were treated with ARP using PRF, while the rest were left to heal naturally. Bone specimens were harvested using trephine bur 2 months after the extraction process. Histomorphometric analysis of new bone formation area compared with total socket area was performed using the software Fiji Is Just Image J (version 2, GNU General Public License). Results Thirty-three volunteers were participated. Twenty-eight bone specimens were collected. The new bone formation ratio was higher in PRF group than in control group (31.33 +/- 18% and 26.33 +/- 19.63%, respectively). However, there was no statistically significant difference in the ratio between the PRF and control groups (P = .431). Conclusions It may be concluded that the use of PRF in ARP does not statistically significant enhance new bone formation after tooth extraction compared to normal wound healing (P > .05).