Platelet-Rich Fibrin Can Improve Septoplasty Results: A Prospective Randomised Controlled Trial

This study aims to assess the impact of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) on nasal mucociliary clearance (NMC) time and post-operative pain following septoplasty.

This trial was conducted involving patients who underwent septoplasty. Participants were randomly assigned to either a control group or a PRF group. The control group underwent standard septoplasty, while in the PRF group, PRF membranes were placed and sutured between the Doyle splint and septal mucosa at the end of the surgery. NMC times were measured in both groups and in both nasal passages preoperatively and post-operatively using the saccharin test. Additionally, pain levels were assessed at the fourth post-operative hour. Changes in NMC times and pain scores were statistically analysed, with both intragroup and intergroup comparisons conducted.

A total of 41 participants were included in the study, with PRF applied to 20 randomly selected individuals. The groups were comparable in terms of age, gender, smoking status, and deviation side and type (p > 0.05). A statistically significant reduction in median NMC duration was observed in the PRF group in the deviated nasal passage. Although a statistically significant increase in median NMC time was noted in the control group in the non-deviated passage (p < 0.05), this increase was limited in the PRF group. Furthermore, post-operative pain scores were significantly lower in the PRF group compared to the control group (p < 0.05).

The application of PRF post-operatively may enhance nasal mucociliary clearance in the deviated nasal passage and alleviate post-operative pain in patients undergoing septoplasty.