Effectiveness of Oroantral Communication Closure Using Solid Platelet-Rich Fibrin Compared to a Conventional Treatment Approach: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of platelet-rich fibrin clot (PRF) and conventional oroantral communication (OAC) repair techniques following tooth extractions from the maxilla. The study involved 22 patients, divided into 2 groups: a study group treated with PRF and a control group undergoing conventional OAC repair. The primary outcome measured was the effectiveness of OAC closure, with pain intensity and postoperative complications as secondary outcomes. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to evaluate post-extraction bone regeneration. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) on days 0, 1, 7, and 14 postoperatively. The results showed that the PRF group experienced a significant decrease in pain within the first 24 hours and after 7 days (P < .0001; P < .05). In contrast, complications were reported in 45.45% of patients in the conventional repair group and 18.18% in the A-PRF group. Three months postsurgery, CBCT revealed appreciable bone healing in both groups, with no significant difference (P > .05). In conclusion, the study suggests that A-PRF treatment for OACs resulted in fewer complications and quicker pain reduction than traditional repair methods, making it a promising alternative for managing OACs. However, future studies are needed to confirm these findings and establish the full therapeutic potential of PRF.