Ten years of injectable platelet‐rich fibrin

Abstract

The use of platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) has seen widespread advantages over platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) in many fields of medicine. However, until 2014, PRF remained clinically available only in its solid clotted form. Modifications to centrifugation protocols and tube technology have led to the development of a liquid injectable version of PRF (i‐PRF). This narrative review takes a look back at the technological developments made throughout the past decade and further elaborates on their future clinical applications. Topics covered include improvements in isolation techniques and protocols, ways to further concentrate i‐PRF, and the clinical impact and relevance of cooling i‐PRF. Next, various uses of i‐PRF are discussed, including its use in regenerative periodontology, implantology, endodontics, temporomandibular joint injections, and orthodontic tooth movement. Furthermore, various indications in medicine are also covered, including its use in sports injuries and osteoarthritis of various joints, treatment of diabetic ulcers/wound care, and facial esthetics and hair regrowth. Finally, future applications are discussed, mainly its use as a drug delivery vehicle for small biomolecules, such as growth factors, antibiotics, exosomes, and other medications that may benefit from the controlled and gradual release of biomolecules over time.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Injectable Platelet-Rich Fibrin (i-PRF) in the Non-Surgical Treatment of Periodontitis—A Systematic Review

“…However, prior to 2014, PRF remained clinically available solely in its solid clotted form. The implementation of modifications to centrifugation protocols and tube technology has led to the advancement of PRF being available in a liquid injectable form (i-PRF) [ 32 , 33 , 34 ]. A key benefit of i-PRF is its ability to consistently release a range of growth factors, such as PDGF, TGF-β and IGF-I [ 35 , 36 , 37 ], which in turn promotes cell migration by inducing the expression of key proteins such as type I collagen and transforming growth factor mRNA [ 33 , 38 ].…”