Platelet-rich plasma and its effect in bone regeneration in mandibular fractures. Controlled clinical trial

Background: Currently there is great interest in developing clinical applications of platelet-rich plasma to enhance bone repair. Aim: To assess bone regeneration in mandibular fractures, with the application of this adjuvant. Methods: Twenty patients with mandibular fractures were included in a randomized clinical trial. Patients of the experimental group (n = 10) were submitted to internal fracture reduction and administration of platelet-rich plasma, and patients of the control group (n = 10) were submitted to the same surgical procedure without plasma application. Radiologic assessment was made before and at 1 and 3 months after surgery. X-rays were digitalized for analyze intensity and density as reflection of bone regeneration. Results: The average age was 32 +/- 11.3 years and 31.2 +/- 8.48 years respectively (p = 0.76). The radiographic intensity and density in the experimental group at the 1st and 3rd month were higher in contrast to the control group (p < 0.005). Bone regeneration time was 3.7 +/- 0.48 and 4.5 +/- 0.52 weeks respectively (p = 0.002). There was no morbidity related to the application of the platelet-rich plasma. Conclusion: The platelet-rich plasma increased the bone intensity and density in the fracture trace allowing bone regeneration and recovery in shorter time than patients in which it was not used.