Regenerative potential of leucocyte‐ and platelet‐rich fibrin. Part A: intra‐bony defects, furcation defects and periodontal plastic surgery. A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract Aim To analyse the regenerative potential of leucocyte‐ and platelet‐rich fibrin (L‐ PRF ) during periodontal surgery. Materials and Methods An electronic and hand search were conducted in three databases. Only randomized clinical trials were selected and no follow‐up limitation was applied. Pocket depth ( PD ), clinical attachment level ( CAL ), bone fill, keratinized tissue width ( KTW ), recession reduction and root coverage (%) were considered as outcome. When possible, meta‐analysis was performed. Results Twenty‐four articles fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Three subgroups were created: intra‐bony defects ( IBD s), furcation defects and periodontal plastic surgery. Meta‐analysis was performed in all the subgroups. Significant PD reduction (1.1 ± 0.5 mm, p < 0.001), CAL gain (1.2 ± 0.6 mm, p < 0.001) and bone fill (1.7 ± 0.7 mm, p < 0.001) were found when comparing L‐ PRF to open flap debridement ( OFD ) in IBD s. For furcation defects, significant PD reduction (1.9 ± 1.5 mm, p = 0.01), CAL gain (1.3 ± 0.4 mm, p < 0.001) and bone fill (1.5 ± 0.3 mm, p < 0.001) were reported when comparing L‐ PRF to OFD . When L‐ PRF was compared to a connective tissue graft, similar outcomes were recorded for PD reduction (0.2 ± 0.3 mm, p > 0.05), CAL gain (0.2 ± 0.5 mm, p > 0.05), KTW (0.3 ± 0.4 mm, p > 0.05) and recession reduction (0.2 ± 0.3 mm, p > 0.05). Conclusions L‐ PRF enhances periodontal wound healing.