Professor Marc Quirynen shares his experiences working with the L-PRF technique.
New, simpler and more effective treatment techniques are welcomed in the health profession because all clinicians want to make their patients’ lives easier. Enhancing the stability of dental implants is one topic that a lot of clinicians are interested in – when patients have undergone an invasive procedure making the healing process as smooth as possible is essential. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the variety of concepts available in order to provide patients with the best treatment for them.
Early days
Professor Marc Quirynen, a highly experienced clinician, instructor and lecturer in the field of dental implantology and periodontology, shares how he first came across leucocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF):
“I first encountered the L-PRF technique in 2013 and the results left me in shock – I didn’t realise L-PRF was even a treatment option. The procedure was still lacking science behind it, but I knew that if only 50 per cent of what I saw was reality, then it was still unbelievable in the sense of how L-PRF could improve treatment outcomes. L-PRF can be used in a variety of treatments such as sinus augmentation, lateral bone grafting, treatment of medication related osteonecrosis of the jaw, plastic periodontal surgical, guided tissue regeneration, treatment of bone defects, to facilitate osseointegration of any implant, and the treatment of peri-implantitis.
“Since then, a lot of literature has appeared on the subject. Currently, I am writing a book on the benefits of using L-PRF in surgery, specifically in periodontal therapy. The treatment is simple if you follow the basic guidelines and it provides significant improvement of results. For instance, in alveolar ridge preservation, you can prevent resorption of the alveolar bone in a similar way as gold standard treatments, by using L-PRF. It is also valuable in sinus floor elevation and lateral bone augmentation procedures. Some good reviews published by key opinion leaders in Europe have even shown the added value L-PRF offers with open flap debridement. In addition, the management of wounds in patients treated with bisphosphonates is easier and more predictable with L-PRF membranes. Overall, the treatment is more forgiving and easier for the clinician as they don’t have to close the wound as in other techniques – it heals on its own.”
The challenges of L-PRF
As with any clinical techniques, there are some challenges to using L-PRF, though as Marc goes on to show, there are not too many in this case, “The only real problem that any clinician will encounter with this technique is the chair side preparation that it requires. As you need to take blood from the patient directly, the clinician or dental nurse will need to be available to do this. Time must also be carefully managed, as the collection and treatment of the blood sample in the centrifuge must be performed within a set and relatively short timeframe.
“Mostly, patients don’t mind using their own blood for this procedure. Usually, when you ask them if they would prefer materials taken from an animal or from themselves, they will choose their own blood. However, occasionally a patient will not be comfortable with this technique, in which case substitutes must be used instead – though these biomaterials tend to be more expensive and lead to longer treatment processes.”
L-PRF and the benefits
“L-PRF offers a plethora of benefits to the dental clinician and their patient in need of implant treatment or bone augmentation,” Marc continues. “I am tremendously proud to say that I have even convinced dermatologists, vascular surgeons and various other healthcare professionals of the advantages that L-PRF affords. Anyone looking to enhance wound healing around the body can use this method. Patients who have been suffering for years with chronic wounds – such as diabetic foot, for example – can now be treated with L-PRF membranes. The results achieved for diabetic patients using L-PRF drives home the potential of using this concept in a wide range of treatments.
“The number of platelets and osteocytes present in samples is over twenty-five times higher in L-PFR compared to blood, and the material releases growth factors over fourteen days. The blood also contains anti-bacterial capacity, analgesic qualities, haemostatic tendencies and is safe for patients ingesting coagulants.”
Don't miss the ADI Team Congress 2022
Marc will be exploring this topic in greater detail in his presentation – “Where Are We With Platelet Rich Concentrate?” – during the ADI Team Congress 2022. The event will offer a diverse and exciting educational programme for the whole dental implant team, as well as an extensive trade exhibition featuring various manufacturers, suppliers and training providers within the field.
He adds, “I hope delegates gain some useful information on the use of L-PRF in different situations. It may be a significant option in the future and I would encourage more clinicians to consider it!”
Don’t miss the ADI Team Congress 2022 to find out more!
“The Great Debate”
26-28 May 2022, Manchester Central
ADI members will be able to attend the ADI Team Congress for discounted rates. Join today.