What is L-PRF?
Leukocyte-Platelet Rich Fibrin (L-PRF) is a second-generation platelet concentrate that can be used in a variety of medical and dental applications. It has been in use since 2005. It is derived from the patient's own blood, making it an autologous material, which significantly reduces the risk of immunological reactions or transmission of infectious diseases. L-PRF is prepared by drawing a small volume of blood from the patient and processing it using a centrifuge to obtain a concentrated fibrin matrix enriched with platelets, leukocytes, and growth factors.
Components of L-PRF
Platelets: Platelets play a crucial role in wound healing and tissue regeneration. They contain growth factors, such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which stimulate cell proliferation and angiogenesis.
Leukocytes: White blood cells, or leukocytes, are involved in the body's immune response. L-PRF contains both neutrophils and monocytes, which contribute to the inflammatory phase of wound healing and help combat infection.
Fibrin Matrix: The fibrin matrix is a natural scaffold that traps the platelets, leukocytes, and growth factors. This matrix provides structural support and releases growth factors slowly, creating a sustained regenerative effect.
Applications of L-PRF
L-PRF has a wide range of applications in various fields, but specifically in this office, Dr. John uses it for bone grafting, especially in compromised situations, sinus lifts, and implantology procedures, as it promotes bone formation and accelerates the healing of surgical sites. It can stimulate the regeneration of periodontal tissues, including the gums and bone.
In addition, L-PRF is used in various other medical fields including Dermatology, Orthopedics, Plastic Surgery, and Ophthalmology.
Advantages of L-PRF
Safety: L-PRF is derived from the patient's own blood, eliminating the risk of immunological reactions or disease transmission.
Enhanced Healing: L-PRF accelerates the body's natural healing processes by delivering a concentrated dose of growth factors to the target area.
Reduced Inflammation: The inclusion of leukocytes in L-PRF can help reduce inflammation and infection risk.
Sustained Release: The fibrin matrix allows for a slow and sustained release of growth factors, leading to prolonged regenerative effects.
References
Dohan, D. M., et al. (2006). Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF): A second-generation platelet concentrate. Part I: Technological concepts and evolution. Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontology, 101(3), e37-e44.
Choukroun, J., et al. (2001). Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF): A second-generation platelet concentrate. Part IV: Clinical effects on tissue healing. Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology, and Endodontology, 101(3), e56-e60.
Ghanaati, S., et al. (2014). Advanced platelet-rich fibrin: A new concept for cell-based tissue engineering by means of inflammatory cells. Journal of Oral Implantology, 40(6), 679-689.