Efficacy of Autologous Platelet Concentrates in Regenerative Endodontic Treatment: A Systematic Review of Human Studies

Abstract

Introduction: The latest research concerns the use of platelet concentrates, which are introduced into the root canal. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of platelet-rich fibrin and platelet-rich plasma in regenerative endodontics.

Methods: This literature review was developed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. The literature search included all publications without a year limit. The last search was performed on January 31, 2018. An electronic search was performed using MEDLINE (PubMed), Cochrane, and Scopus. Articles were selected that addressed the following research question: Is the use of platelet concentrates effective in regenerative endodontics? The necessary information was extracted by 2 authors independently using a standardized form.

Results: The search resulted in 426 titles from all databases, and 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. Five were randomized trials, and the others were case reports. All described cases were asymptomatic. Only 3 cases from randomized trials were unsuccessful. Ten of the case reports found positive results for pulp vitality. In randomized trials, the teeth treated with platelet concentrates showed better results for pulp vitality. In almost all cases, they also described thickening and lengthening of the root wall and closure of the apical foramen, which are important for successful treatment of permanent teeth.

Conclusions: This review showed that procedures using autologous platelet concentrates were successful in treating permanent teeth with root development. However, more long-term clinical studies are needed.

Keywords: Platelet concentrates; platelet-rich fibrin; platelet-rich plasma; regenerative endodontic procedures; revascularization; revitalization.