Concentrated Growth Factor Constructs Improve Wound Healing After Third Molar Surgery: A Split-Mouth Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Concentrated growth factor (CGF) is an autologous platelet concentrate containing a fibrin scaffold and biomolecules.
• Its effect on wound healing following third molar surgery is not well-established.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare wound healing and biomolecular levels in CGF-treated versus untreated extraction sites after third molar surgery.
• To evaluate the efficacy of CGF in promoting socket healing.

Main Methods:

• A double-blinded, split-mouth randomized controlled trial involving 25 patients undergoing mandibular third molar extraction.
• One socket per patient received CGF treatment, while the contralateral socket served as the control.
• Wound healing was assessed using the wound healing index; biomolecule concentrations in CGF membranes and wound fluid were measured.

Main Results:

• The wound healing index was significantly improved in CGF-treated sites on postoperative days 3 and 7.
• Transforming growth factor-β1 was the most abundant protein released from CGF in vitro.
• Concentrations of multiple growth factors and cytokines (e.g., TGF-β1, PDGF, VEGF, EGF, FGF-2, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10) were elevated in wound fluid from CGF sockets.

Conclusions:

• CGF application enhances biomolecule concentrations in wound fluid.
• CGF is associated with improved early wound healing after impacted third molar extraction.
• CGF is a promising biomaterial for promoting healing in oral surgery procedures.