Improved treatment of mandibular odontogenic cysts with platelet-rich gel

Background. Platelets play a central role in hemostasis and healing processes. By concentrating platelets, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) with higher levels of growth factors can be obtained, which might stimulate healing processes. After platelet degranulation, massive release of growth factors and active substances occurs and gelatinous matrix-platelet-rich gel (PRG) is formed. Objective. In this double-blind study, we report the influence of PRG on healing of mandibular odontogenic cysts. Study design. We examined 23 cases divided into control ( no PRG treatment) and experimental ( PRG-treated) groups. Each participant was followed on a regular basis with clinical examinations, roentgenograms, and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry ( DEXA) examinations. Results. Clinical observations showed that oral mucosa healed faster in patients treated with PRG compared with cases where gel was not added. Roentgenograms and DEXA examinations showed considerable enhancement of bone regeneration beginning from the 5th week and continuing during subsequent periods after implantation of PRG in the experimental group compared with the control group. Conclusions. In our opinion, PRG possesses inductive properties that could stimulate the healing processes. The use of autologous growth factors from platelet gel seems to be one of the most promising methods of treatment of bone, cartilage, and soft tissue defects.