The role of leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin as a sole grafting material in alveolar ridge preservation: a clinical radiographic study

Introduction
Ridge preservation is a widely used surgical technique to reduce post-extractive alveolar bone resorption; this procedure is performed with a variety of bio-materials. Leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) is a prominent recent platelet concentrate used for ridge preservation, with a lot of controversy over the role of this bio-material. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of L-PRF radiographically in reducing post-extraction dimensional changes after tooth extraction compared with unassisted bone healing.

Material and methods
Forty premolars were extracted symmetrically in a split-mouth design, and control and test sides were assigned randomly. Test extraction socket in each patient was filled with L-PRF clot and control extraction socket was unassisted, both sockets were cross-sutured. A CBCT examination was performed in two time lapses (immediately after extraction and 4 months post-extraction). Dimensional changes on both test and control sockets were analyzed, and radiographic examination was performed comparing dimensional changes of widths and heights of both sockets.

Results
The current study showed a statistically significant difference between the test group (L-PRF) over the control group (unassisted healing) in both widths and heights of the sockets.

Conclusions
After 4 months of follow-up, the use of L-PRF for the purpose of reducing post-extraction bone resorption and alveolar ridge preservation is considered beneficial, cost-effective, and recommended in a planned implant treatment.