Utilization of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) to Reconstruct Bilateral Mandibular Defects

Abstract

Background: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) plus bone substitute matrix used to repair defects in the viscerocranium has been demonstrated to be equally as effective at regenerating bone as autografts. The creation of fewer surgical sites, reduced operative and recovery time, and infection prevention are all potential benefits of this novel approach, especially for patients with conditions that complicate surgical management and recovery. Case presentation: A 33-year-old male with schizophrenia presented with trauma-induced bilateral mandibular fractures. Premorbid mental health factors and a complicated clinical trajectory precluded traditional management using bone autografts to repair mandibular defects and restore occlusive alignment. Instead, a composite matrix consisting of cadaver-derived bone chips and PRP was used to span 1 and 1.5 cm mandibular gaps. No complications were identified and occlusion with adequate alignment and function was achieved. Conclusion: We report the first patient to undergo surgical repair for multiple trauma-induced mandibular bone defects using a matrix made only of bone substitute and PRP.