Locally applied platelet-rich fibrin enhances healing of experimental tympanic membrane perforations in rats: an experimental study

Abstract

Abstract Background This study investigated the therapeutic efficacy of locally applied platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) on experimentally induced traumatic tympanic membrane perforations in rats. Methods The study comprised 24 young-adult Sprague Dawley rats (48 ears) randomly allocated into three groups of eight rats each: control group (no intervention), myringotomy group (standard perforation), and myringotomy with PRF application group. Otomicroscopic examinations were performed on days 7 and 14 to evaluate tympanic membrane healing and myringosclerosis development. Two rats from each experimental group were randomly selected for killing on day 7, with the remaining specimens collected on day 14. Histopathological analysis assessed acute and chronic inflammation, lamina propria edema and congestion, sclerosis, fibroblastic reaction, and squamous epithelial layer thickness. Results The PRF-treated group demonstrated superior healing outcomes compared to the myringotomy-only group. By day 14, complete tympanic membrane closure was achieved in all eight ears of the PRF group versus six of eight ears in the myringotomy group. Electrophysiological measurements revealed significantly improved signal-to-noise ratios in the PRF group, approaching normal levels by day 14 (p < 0.05). Histological examination showed reduced inflammation and better-organized tissue architecture in PRF-treated specimens. Conclusion PRF application significantly enhanced tympanic membrane healing, accelerated closure time, and improved histological outcomes in traumatic perforations. These findings suggest PRF represents a promising therapeutic option for traumatic tympanic membrane perforation repair, warranting further clinical investigation.

Keywords

• Tympanic membrane
• Tympanic membrane perforation
• Platelet-rich fibrin
• Platelet-rich plasma