Platelet-rich fibrin did not affect autologous bone graft in repairing alveolar clefts

Abstract Objective To investigate effect of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) on bone regeneration in repairing alveolar clefts with autologous particulate cancellous bone and marrow (PCBM) from iliac crest. Methods Alveolar cleft patients were randomly divided into the PRF group (mixing PCBM with liquid PRF and covering the graft with PRF membranes) or control group (PCBM only). After bone graft, the regenerated bone volume was assessed by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) at 6 months, the bone density was evaluated by CBCT at 6 months and periapical radiographs at 1, 3, and 6 months. The position of the regenerated bone at 6-months was classified using the Chelsea scale. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to analyze differences in bone volume and density between groups. Results Fifteen alveolar cleft sites (13 patients, aged 8–14 years old) were analyzed. The PRF and control group consisted of 8 and 7 cleft sites, respectively. The regenerated bone volume and density were not significantly different between both groups. The Chelsea scale results were similar in both groups. All clefts healed uneventfully. Conclusions PRF did not affect bone regeneration when repairing alveolar clefts with autologous PCBM.