Comparative Evaluation of Autologous Bone Grafting With and Without PRP or PRF in Cleft Alveolus Reconstruction: A Prospective Randomized Study.
Abhilasha Yadav, Rajiv Borle, Suhas Jajoo et al.
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In 30 seconds
This prospective randomized controlled trial compared autologous bone grafting alone with grafting plus platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in 75 patients aged 7 to 20 years undergoing alveolar cleft reconstruction. At 6 months, the PRF group had the highest radiographic bone density and a more favorable Bergland score distribution than the control group (P < .05); Grade I Bergland success was 64% with PRF. Early postoperative pain was also lower with PRF, while complication rates were low and similar across groups. The authors describe the findings as preliminary.
Key findings
- At 6 months, PRF was associated with higher radiographic bone density and a more favorable Bergland distribution than grafting alone (P < .05).
- Grade I Bergland success was highest with PRF, at 64%.
- Early postoperative VAS pain scores were significantly lower with PRF (Kruskal-Wallis P < .05).
- Surgical site complications were low and did not differ significantly among groups.
Why it matters
Bone formation, bone-bridge quality, and postoperative pain are relevant outcomes in alveolar cleft reconstruction. This trial suggests PRF may offer advantages when added to autologous grafting, while finding no apparent increase in surgical site complications. The results provide comparative evidence for these adjuncts but remain preliminary and do not establish a definitive benefit.
What to keep in mind
The authors note that age-stratified analyses were exploratory and underpowered, and call for larger, blinded studies with longer follow-up.