Autologous Platelet-rich Fibrin as a Three-dimensional Structural Scaffold in the Healing of Contracted Orbital Sockets

Abstract

Purpose: Evaluation of platelet-rich fibrin as an adjuvant in surface healing of contracted orbital sockets. Methods: Prospective, interventional, and comparative study of 25 patients with moderate to severe contracted sockets conducted over 2 years (February 2020–February 2022). Group 1 underwent a dermis-fat graft with fornix forming sutures supplemented by a platelet-rich fibrin membrane, while group 2 received a dermis-fat graft with fornix forming sutures only. Patients over 18 years were evaluated as per prefixed inclusion and exclusion criteria. Assessments were conducted at 1, 3, and 12 months postsurgery, focusing on wound evaluation, socket epithelialization, postoperative pain, prosthesis rehabilitation, and complications, if any. Wound evaluation and pain intensity were assessed utilizing the wound evaluation score and visual analog scale, respectively. Socket epithelization was documented clinically at every visit. Results: The study showed a mean age of 38.8 ± 8.8 years, with a 2:1 male-to-female ratio. Group 1 consistently scored higher on wound evaluation score than group 2 at all follow-up points. In group 1, 81.8% achieved a maximum wound evaluation score at 4 weeks and 100% at 3 and 12 months, compared to group 2’s 42.8%, 50%, and 57.1%, respectively (p < 0.05). Postoperative contracture occurred in 3 group 2 patients at the final follow-up, with 6 showing unsatisfactory appearance. Group 1 demonstrated significantly lower pain intensity on postoperative day 1 (p = 0.03), and greater epithelization at 4 weeks. Conclusion: platelet-rich fibrin appears to be an effective solution for enhancing wound healing during socket reconstruction, attributed to its sustained release of growth factors and mesenchymal stem cells.