How can the use of platelet-rich fibrin benefit the extraction of mandibular third molars? 2 of 9
as pain, swelling, and trismus, which significantly interfere with the patient's quality
of life [4].
Faced with this problem, researchers in the field seek innovations in techniques
and materials to bring comfort and a postoperative period with less morbidity for
patients. One technique that is gaining ground is the preparation of platelet-rich con-
centrates introduced in Dentistry in the field of surgery. By centrifuging a sample of
the patient's blood until the red blood cells are removed, a suspension rich in white
blood cells (platelets), which are body cells responsible for tissue healing [5], is ob-
tained. This suspension acts as a surgical additive, inserted locally, increasing cell
mitosis, collagen production, the growth of blood vessels, among other important
factors in regeneration [6].
The first generation of autologous platelet aggregates (made from the patient's
own blood) was called Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), such biomaterial after a long
preparation time, is centrifuged and subsequently receives anticoagulant substances
such as sodium citrate, which act by blocking the natural coagulation process, in ad-
dition to elements to initiate platelet movement and activation of the clot more
quickly, such as thrombin, more specifically of the bovine type. PRP gained promi-
nence in regenerative dentistry, especially in endodontics, periodontics, and oral and
maxillofacial surgery [7]. However, the use of PRP presents some limitations, despite
some positive results, criticisms arose due to the possible immune response to the
presence of bovine thrombin factor V, which can lead to changes in coagulation [8].
Other characteristics that lead to a reduction in its applicability are the use of double
centrifugation as a method of preparation, making the process more complex, the
need to add anticoagulant, such as the previously mentioned thrombin, the short
lifespan of the platelets, and a decrease in the concentration of cytokines and growth
factors due to a rapid release, which will reduce their bioavailability [9].
Eager to find promising alternatives that would replace PRP with a material
with better cost-benefit, presenting fewer risks, good availability, and meeting the
needs for good tissue regeneration and efficient healing, Chockroun and his collabo-
rators developed the Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) method, the second generation of au-
tologous platelet aggregates, now without the need for the use of anticoagulants in
its preparation, being a simpler, cheaper, and safer option for the patient [10]. PRF
uses the same collection technique as PRP, however, instead of blood plasma, fibrin
is used. Fibrin is a protein present in the blood that is responsible for clot formation
and can be used as a support agent for platelets. Thus, PRF presents advantages over
PRP, such as the possibility of using a smaller amount of the patient's blood and
greater stability of the platelet concentration [11].
The process involves collecting a small amount of blood (10-20 ml) in a special
collection tube and then centrifuging the blood at a medium speed of 3,000 rotations
per minute [9]. This separates the blood into three layers: platelet-rich plasma, plate-
let-rich fibrin, and a layer of red blood cells. The intermediate layer of PRF is then
collected and can be used for therapeutic purposes. It has been used in dentistry as
a safe and effective alternative to promote healing and tissue regeneration in various
clinical situations, including the exodontia of third molars.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a derivative of blood plasma that contains a high
concentration of platelets and growth factors. There are various types of PRF, with
L-PRF (Leukocyte-Platelet-Rich Fibrin) being a specific notable variant, especially
used in procedures such as exodontia. L-PRF is employed in sockets after the extrac-
tion of mandibular third molars due to its regenerative and tissue healing properties
[9]. Its application in this specific context has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing
post-operative discomfort and promoting a faster recovery [12]. PRF is currently
used in various areas, both dental and medical, in facial harmonizations, implants,
treatments of gingival recessions, being a positive factor especially in the context of
surgeries of mandibular third molars, which based on discussions in the literature,
its use proved to be quite effective, where it is inserted into the patient's alveolus,