RESUMO
To investigate the effect of platelet rich fibrin (PRF) and beta tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP), alone or in combination, on bone regeneration in pig tibial defects. METHODS: Four standardized defects were prepared in both tibias of three adult male pigs. The first defect was left unfilled as a control; the others were grafted with either PRF, β-TCP or PRF mixed with β-TCP. All animals were sacrificed on the 12th postoperative week and the tibial bones were removed, histologic sections were prepared and the experimental sites were examined microscopically and stereologically. RESULTS: Histologic and stereologic examination revealed more new bone formation in the defects filled with PRF mixed β-TCP than in the defects grafted with either β-TCP or PRF alone. CONCLUSION: The platelet rich fibrin and beta tricalcium phosphate combination effectively induces new bone formation.