Endodontic surgery and platelet concentrates: A comprehensive review

Area of Science:

• Regenerative dentistry
• Endodontic microsurgery
• Biomaterials science

Background:

• Autologous platelet concentrates (APCs) are explored for wound healing and tissue regeneration.
• Platelet concentrates, including Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Leucocyte-Platelet-Rich Fibrin (L-PRF), are investigated for endodontic applications.
• Their efficacy in periapical hard tissue defects remains a subject of ongoing research and debate.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on endodontic surgery and APCs.
• To focus on the role of PRP and L-PRF in managing periapical and endo-perio lesions.
• To assess the potential and limitations of APCs as regenerative tools in endodontics.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of recent advances in endodontic surgery.
• Analysis of studies utilizing cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) for evaluating PRP effectiveness.
• Examination of research on L-PRF for apical-marginal defects and patient outcomes.

Main Results:

• PRP shows promising results in complex lesions and apico-marginal defects, but protocol inconsistencies raise questions about its superiority.
• L-PRF demonstrates effectiveness in treating apical-marginal defects, improving clinical attachment and reducing pocket depth.
• L-PRF may enhance patient quality of life by reducing postoperative swelling and pain.

Conclusions:

• APCs hold potential for endodontic regeneration, particularly L-PRF for specific defect types.
• Standardization of preparation methods and long-term benefit confirmation are crucial for L-PRF.
• Further research is essential to establish APCs as reliable regenerative tools in endodontic surgery.