What is PRF and How do we use it?
Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) is a blood derived product. When blood taken by venipuncture from the arm is centrifuged at specific settings, it yields a moldable gelatin containing highly concentrated platelets (clotting cells), leukocytes (white cells) and growth factors plus a separate liquid containing very concentrated fibronectin (the body's glue). Growth Factors released from PRF demonstrate a slow and gradual release over healing time compared to other former blood derivatives such as PRP. This feature significantly improves cellular behavior at the surgical site including cell migration, proliferation (growth and multiplication) and differentiation of stem cells into various cell types (bone, skin, vessel).
It's main function is to rapidly stimulate new blood flow. The growth factors are molecules, also called mediators, that bind to "receptor" molecules on cell membranes and influence cellular functions inducing tissue formation and bone regeneration. Included in PRF are Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PDGF) and Transforming Growth Factor-Beta (TGF-B) among others. PRF also acts as scaffolding for regenerative tissues and, mixed with bone grafting products, vastly improves their handling and stability in the surgical site during healing due to the stickiness of the Fibronectin. The Leukocyte concentration in PRF not only secretes these growth factors but also fights off incoming bacterial infection.
Use of PRF ALONE results in a 9.5-fold decrease in infection rates and dry-sockets when placed into extraction sockets. Furthermore, the use of PRF along with analgesics taken post-surgery has been shown to decrease perceived pain among patients. We have been using PRF drawn from the patient's arm for a year now. We apply it to bone grafts in preparation for dental implant placement. We may also use it during gingival grafting. There is a dental surgeon in UK currently experimenting its use in scalp hair regrowth/regeneration in men and women. There is also interest in its possible use in smoothing wrinkles when injected.