ABSTRACT
Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of gender and peripheral blood parameters on the characteristics of Leucocyte-and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (L-PRF) membranes and to describe histologically three different zones of L-PRF membranes. Methods: Blood was collected from twenty healthy donors (10 men and 10 women). Peripheral blood parameters including leucocyte and platelet counts, and fibrinogen levels were recorded. L-PRF membranes were prepared to quantify the release of growth factors (PDGF, VEGF, BMP-2, and BMP-9) at 1, 2, 3 and 7 days and for histological examination. Three zones within each L-PRF membrane (face, body, and tail) were analysed separately, quantifying the area of leucocytes, platelets, and fibrin in percentage. The Young's modulus of the membranes was also considered (during tensile and compression tests). Results: Women had significantly higher fibrinogen levels in their peripheral blood, and a higher release of BMP-9, whereas men showed a significantly higher Young's modulus in compression tests. The histology revealed significant differences in cellular content and fibrin concentration between the 3 areas, with the face being biologically the richest. Conclusion: Several factors influenced the final characteristics of L-PRF membranes. These need to be taken into consideration when interpreting the results of research, but especially in clinical practice.
ABSTRACT
The aim of the present study was to compare leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) membranes with a connective tissue graft (CTG) in combination with a coronally advanced flap (CAF) in the treatment of Miller Class I or II localized gingival recessions. A randomized controlled clinical trial with 17 recessions in each group was initiated; the control group received treatment with CAF+CTG, and the test group received CAF+L-PRF. The following variables were measured before treatment and after 1, 3, and 6 months: gingival recession depth (RD), gingival recession width (RW), gingival thickness (GT), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and keratinized tissue height (KTH). Also, the root coverage percentage (RC), the pain score, postoperative complications, and the root coverage esthetic score (RES) were recorded after surgery. Both treatments presented significant improvements in the RD, RW, and CAL at 1, 3, and 6 months. CTG achieved a significantly higher RC at 1, 3, and 6 months and a significantly higher RES score at 6 months. L-PRF presented a significantly lower pain score and less postoperative complications. Both strategies were effective for the treatment of localized gingival recessions. The CTG obtained higher RC and esthetic results, and L-PRF had less pain and postsurgical complications.
