Effect of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Application on the Maxillary Sinus Schneiderian Membrane Thickness Following Sinus Floor Augmentation: A Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background and Aim: Considering the efficacy of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in enhancement of healing by releasing growth factors, this study aimed to assess the efficacy of PRF application as a protective barrier right beneath the sinus membrane on the Schneiderian membrane thickness following sinus floor augmentation. Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled split-mouth clinical trial was conducted on 18 patients (36 sinuses) who required bilateral sinus floor augmentation. Two patients (n=4 sinuses) were excluded due to chronic sinusitis, and one patient due to perioperative sinus membrane perforation. Fifteen patients (n=30 sinuses) were finally assessed. In the test side, PRF membrane was placed beneath the Schneiderian membrane while augmentation was performed without a PRF membrane in the control side. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans were taken preoperatively, and at 1 week and 2 months postoperatively, and the Schneiderian membrane thickness was compared at the two sides using ANOVA and a post-hoc test. Results: The mean membrane thickness was 1.85±0.85 mm in the control and 2.17±0.87 mm in the test group before the intervention (P=0.6). At 1 week, the mean thickness was 2.45±1.22 in the control and 3.77±1.42 mm in the case group (P=0.2). At 2 months, the mean thickness was 2.54±1.66 mm in the control and 1.71±1.31 mm in the test group (P=0.2). ANOVA showed no significant difference between the two groups at any time point (P>0.05). Conclusion: Application of PRF under the Schneiderian membrane in sinus floor augmentation had no significant effect on the Schneiderian membrane thickness.

Keywords

• sinus floor augmentation
• maxillary sinus
• bone regeneration
• platelet-rich fibrin