Platelet Rich Fibrin in Soft Tissue Healing After Implant Uncovering

Evaluation of Healing Time and Postoperative Morbidity After Implant Uncovering With Vestibularly Repositioned Flap Associated With Leucocyte Platelet Rich Fibrin (L-PRF): a Randomized and Controlled Clinical Trial

This study represents a prospective, controlled and randomized clinical trial assessing the effects of L-PRF on the healing time of the donor area and on the patient's postoperative morbidity in the 4 weeks following the Apically Positioned Flap (APF) procedure in the uncovering phase of two-stage implants.

A total of 40 patients were recruited and divided into two groups. The implant uncovering procedure in the test group was performed with APF and application of L-PRF on the donor area. Patients in the control group, on the other hand, were treated with APF alone, leaving the donor area to heal by secondary intention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• to have at least one implant in the maxilla with a quantity of vestibular keratinized gingiva < 2 mm
• to be in good systemic health
• to have a good oral hygiene (FMPS and FMBS < 20%)

Exclusion Criteria:

• systemic diseases: coagulation disorders; medications affecting periodontal status in the previous 6 months; pregnancy or lactation;
• smoking habits;
• peri-implant surgery on the experimental sites.