Platelet-rich plasma and resorbable membrane for prevention of periodontal defects after deeply impacted lower third molar extraction.

PURPOSE: The extraction of deeply included third molars may cause multiple periodontal defects at the distal root of the second molar. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a material containing autologous growth factors, which may be used in repairing and preventing periodontal complications at the distal root of the second molar adjacent to the extracted third molar. We have previously analyzed the effects of autologous PRP on periodontal tissues after extraction of the third molar in 18 young patients. In the current study, we investigated the clinical effects of a resorbable collagen membrane of porcine origin (Bio-Gide; Geistlich Biomaterials, Wolhusen, Switzerland) associated with PRP on bone regeneration after surgical avulsion of the inferior third molars in mesio-horizontal inclusion in comparison with the use of PRP alone.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Inclusion criteria were the presence of a pocket distal to the mandibular second molar with a probing depth greater than or equal to 7.5 mm and a probing attachment level greater than or equal to 6 mm, and a postextraction defect presenting with the vestibular and lingual cortical bone intact.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: We show that although clinical results from the comparison of PRP alone versus PRP and resorbable membrane can be considered similar, from a histologic point of view, the association of PRP to Bio-Gide membrane showed earlier signs of bone maturation but not a higher grade of bone regeneration.