The Role of Autologous Platelet Concentrates in Alveolar Socket Preservation: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Prevention of alveolar bone resorption after tooth extraction may be useful for implant rehabilitation of the edentulous site minimizing the future need for bone augmentation procedures. A number of studies have investigated the efficacy of autologous platelet concentrates for the preservation of the alveolar bone volume after tooth extraction. Although encouraging results have been published, the available data are still controversial. The aim of the present systematic review was to assess the effect of platelet concentrates on alveolar socket preservation after tooth extraction. A literature search was carried out up to September 2017 for prospective controlled trials in which a test group using exclusively a platelet concentrate was compared with a control group in which extraction sockets were left to heal spontaneously. Seven controlled clinical trials published between 2010 and 2016 were included. A total of 320 extractions (170 tests and 150 controls) in 190 patients was considered. A great heterogeneity was found in terms of study design, methodological aspects, and outcome evaluation. For this reason, a quantitative analysis followed by meta-analysis was not possible, and only a descriptive analysis on the role of platelet concentrates in alveolar socket preservation was carried out. There is growing evidence that platelet concentrates may be advantageously used in postextraction sites, mainly to improve soft tissue healing and to reduce postoperative symptoms. Data about their potential in preserving the alveolar bone volume are still scarce and controversial, although recently encouraging results have been presented using more reliable and accurate evaluation technologies, such as the computed tomography. Further, well-designed and methodologically standardized investigations are strongly demanded to reach a higher level of evidence on this topic.

Effects of Autologous Platelet-Rich Fibrin in Post-Extraction Alveolar Sockets: A Randomized, Controlled Split-Mouth Trial in Dogs with Spontaneous Periodontal Disease

“…In most of these studies, the use of PRF was clearly beneficial [ 13 , 20 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 ], while in others the utility of PRF seemed to be more controversial, failing to show enhancement of the socket healing process [ 31 , 32 , 33 ]. In recent systematic reviews, definitive conclusions could not be drawn [ 34 , 35 , 36 , 37 ].…”

Turn down - turn up: a simple and low-cost protocol for preparing platelet-rich plasma

“…The development of low-cost and minimally invasive therapies for orthopedics has led to the use of biological therapies, especially platelet-rich plasma (PRP), to optimize clinical outcomes and improve tissue recovery 5. Studies on the therapeutic applications of PRP have been conducted in several fields, such as maxillofacial surgery 6, cardiovascular surgery 7, and plastic surgery 8. In orthopedics, the clinical indications include hip and knee osteoarthritis, rotator cuff pathologies 8, epicondylitis and tendinitis 9, fracture healing 10, and back pain 11.…”

Comparison of platelet-rich plasma and inverted internal limiting membrane flap for the management of large macular holes: A pilot study

“…As a high concentration of platelets is achieved in PRP, a high concentration of growth factors such as epithelial growth factor, transforming growth factor, and the platelet-derived growth factor is added to the local milieu, which helps drive the regenerative mechanism. [ 15 16 17 ] Burmeister et al . in their in vitro studies have demonstrated that autologous platelet concentrate promotes better growth and migration of Muller cell compared to both control and serum.…”

“…It has been successfully utilized in the fields of plastic, cosmetic, reconstructive, oral, and orthopedic surgery. [ 15 16 17 ] Although the use of platelets for the treatment of MH has previously been reported, literature lacks studies comparing its efficiency with inverted ILM flap in large MH. [ 5 18 19 20 21 22 ]…”