Use of Platelet-Rich Fibrin in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a strong but flexible fibrin including a enrich platelet which contain growth factors and cytokines. PRF can be made very simply and requires no artificial additives unlike platelet-rich plasma. While PRF is remodeled and released in the tissue, this induces cell growth, vascularization, collagen synthesis, osteoblast differentiation and an anti-inflammatory reaction. Taking advantage of these functions, PRF can stimulate regeneration of bone and soft tissue in a diverse number of ways during the course of hemostasis, wound coverage, preservation, and reconstruction of alveolar bone. Moreover, the use of PRF to improve bone regeneration has become a recent technique in implantology. In this study, through a literature review of PRF's existing clinical applications, we classified a range of potential PRF oral and maxillofacial surgery applications including preservation of extraction sockets, guided bone graft, sinus lift, dressing and periodontal treatment. This trial gave us chance to confirm the usefulness of PRF. Recently, updated clinical studies results concerning skin and tendon wound healing have become available. These results suggest that the usage of RPF will gradually expand.