Autologous Platelet Rich Plasma After Third Molar Surgery: A Comparative Study

Purpose: This study is an attempt to evaluate the use of autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP) to promote wound healing and osseous regeneration in human third molar extraction sockets. Materials and method: PRP was prepared after two centrifugation and the gelling agent used was freshly prepared 10% calcium chloride.PRP gel was placed in one of the extracted sockets of bilateral impacted mandibular third molars. IOPA Xrays were used to evaluate the wound dehiscence, probing depth, bone density & alveolar bone level after 1st, 2nd and 7th day and 3rd & 6th month respectively. Results: On evaluation, it was found that PRP grafted sockets showed dehiscence in 8% cases. The decrease in alveolar bone level was highly significant in PRP grafted sockets in 3rd and 6th month post operatively. There was significant difference between pre-operative density of adjacent bone and bone formed in extraction sockets at 3rd and 6th month in PRP grafted sockets. There was significant reduction in probing depth from initial period to 3 and 6 months in both the groups, but PRP grafted sockets showed greater decrease in probing depth. Conclusion: PRP is an inexpensive and widely available modality to minimize postoperative complication and enhance both hard and soft tissue healing potentials. This autologous product eliminates concern about immunogenic reaction and disease transmission. Its beneficial outcomes in dental clinic, including decrease in bleeding and rapid wound healing hold promise for further procedures.PRP is thus a new application in tissue engineering and developing area for clinician and researchers. © 2011, Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India.