The Effect of Platelet-Rich Fibrin on Block, Crushed and Diced Cartilage

In nasal surgery, autologous cartilage grafts are routinely used to correct structural weakness, contour deformities, and irregularities, yet current techniques still face challenges related to long-term cartilage graft viability and resorption. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a second-generation platelet concentrate that may improve graft survival through its sustained release of bioactive molecules within a natural fibrin matrix.

To evaluate the biochemical and histopathological effects of combining PRF with autologous cartilage grafts of different forms (block, crushed, and diced) in a rabbit model and to determine which combination provides optimal cartilage viability and matrix stability.

Twenty-four New Zealand rabbits divided into six groups based on their form: block, crushed, and diced. PRF was applied to three groups, while the remaining three served as controls. The grafts were placed in subcutaneous pockets on the rabbits' backs and harvested after 8 weeks for histopathological and biochemical analyses. Cartilage tissues, growth factors, matrix components, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, and apoptosis markers were evaluated.

PRF-treated groups demonstrated significantly higher growth factor levels, antioxidant status, lower oxidative stress and apoptosis markers compared with controls (p < 0.05). Histological analyses showed better cellular proliferation and extracellular matrix preservation, particularly in PRF-combined diced and block cartilage grafts, whereas crushed cartilage exhibited marked degeneration.

PRF enhanced the viability, proliferation, and angiogenic response of autologous cartilage grafts through its sustained release of growth factors and scaffold-like fibrin matrix. These findings suggest that PRF may improve graft stability and reduce postoperative complications in nasal surgery.

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .