Endodontic repair in immature dogs' teeth with apical periodontitis: blood clot vs plasma rich in growth factors scaffold

Background/Aim Different types of scaffolds have been suggested for endodontic repair procedures. The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of procedures using blood clot vs plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) scaffold in immature teeth with apical periodontitis in dogs. Materials and methods In this in vivo animal study, 20 teeth (30 canals) with open apices were divided into two groups (n = 12): (1) blood clot and (2) PRGF. Two positive and negative control groups were also selected randomly. After exposing the pulp and inducing periapical inflammation by placing a sponge soaked in a suspension of dental plaque, the root canals of both groups were flushed with sodium hypochlorite and filled with triple antibiotic paste. After 28 days, the antibiotic mixture was removed, bleeding was induced through the apical foramen, and mineral trioxide aggregate was placed over the blood clot in group one and PRGF scaffold in group two. Access cavities were then filled with composite resin. The radiographic and histological findings were compared immediately after the procedure, as well as after 3 and 6 months of follow‐up. Results There was no statistically significant difference between the two experimental groups with regard to the radiographic or histological results (P > 0.05). The incidence of healed periapical radiolucency was 60% and 53.33% in groups one and two, respectively. Apical closure was noted in 60% of samples in both experimental groups. New cementum‐like tissue formation was detected along the walls of the canals, and bone‐like islands within the canals were also observed. Conclusions Plasma rich in growth factors scaffold showed no advantage over blood clots regarding healing of the periapical radiolucency, radiographic apical closure and type of the newly formed soft and hard tissues.