Effect of autologous platelet-rich plasma on bone regeneration in mandibular fractures

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to assess the effect of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on bone regeneration in mandibular fractures via a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Patients and methodsTwenty-four patients having parasymphyseal fractures participated in this study. They were randomly divided into two equal groups. Group A was treated by two titanium miniplates and screws plus local application of activated PRP along the fracture line, whereas group B was treated by the same bone plates and screws without application of PRP. The patients were recalled at 1week, 3 and 6months after surgery for clinical assessment and measuring the bone density via CBCT at a region of interest (ROI) including the fracture line. ResultsThe mean values of the bone density measurements, in both groups, were higher at 3 and 6months than 1week after surgery. At 1week after surgery, the values were 54293HU and 515 +/- 81HU in group A and B, respectively. In group A, the mean value of bone density measurements was 728 +/- 58HU (range 620-796HU) at 3months after surgery and it was 1024 +/- 188HU (range 825-1490HU) 6months later. While in group B, the mean values of the bone density measurements at the ROI were 600 +/- 78HU (range 520-790HU) and 756 +/- 53HU (range 710-890HU) at 3 and 6months after surgery, respectively. The increase in the bone density measurements at 3 and 6months after surgery was statistically significant only in group A (P=0.0002 and P=0.0001, respectively). ConclusionsIt can be concluded that direct application of the PRP along the fracture lines may enhance the bone regeneration in mandibular fractures.