Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma on a Rabbit Model of Nicotine-Compromised Bone Healing

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on nicotine-compromised bone healing. Materials and Methods: Fifteen adult New Zealand white rabbits were implanted with 1.5-g time-release nicotine pellets. Bilateral mandibular distraction osteogenesis was then performed. Autologous PRP was injected into 1 side of the distraction regenerate, whereas physiologic saline solution was injected into the contralateral side as a control. Five rabbits were killed on day 5 of active distraction, on day 11 of active distraction, and in week 2 of consolidation, respectively. Results: In the PRP the platelet enrichment was 14.63 +/- 3.081-fold of that in whole blood. Plain radiography and micro-computed tomography assessment showed no significant difference between the PRP injection and control sides. Histologic examination showed more disorganized distraction tissue on the PRP injection side. Conclusions: PRP injection at an early stage of active distraction does not significantly enhance bone healing in the nicotine-compromised rabbit model of mandibular lengthening. (C) 2011 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral Maxillofac Surg 69:28-35, 2011