Can platelet-rich plasma shorten the consolidation phase of distraction osteogenesis? An experimental study

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on distraction osteogenesis.

Tibias of 36 New Zealand white rabbits were distracted at a rate of 0.25 mm/8 h for 20 days with a circular external fixator. The animals were randomly divided into a control group that did not receive PRP therapy and an experimental group, with PRP injection into the distracted area. Radiographic examinations were performed at the 10th, 20th, 30th, 40th and 50th days after end of distraction. By the 50th day after distraction, all animals were sacrificed, the external fixator was removed and the tibia was dissected. After that, each group was subdivided into two subgroups: one for pathological study and another one for mechanical study.

Radiologic scores were statistically similar at the 10th, 20th and 30th days. However, the experimental group demonstrated higher radiologic scores at the 40th and 50th days. Histopathologic examination revealed a statistically significant higher score in the experimental group. The PRP injected group showed an improvement of their mechanical properties.

The results of this study show that PRP has beneficial effects on new bone formation during distraction osteogenesis.