The use of leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin in the management of soft tissue healing and pain in post-extraction sockets: A randomized clinical trial

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical effect of leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) to improve epithelialization and decrease postoperative pain in post-extraction sockets. Thirty two participants requiring extractions of posterior teeth were randomized into two groups: 1) extractions and socket filling with L-PRF membrane (test group) and 2) extraction with spontaneous healing (control group). One week after extraction, an assessment of soft tissue healing around the sockets was performed using the healing index. Also, postoperative pain by visual analog scale (VAS) and number of consumed analgesic tablets were recorded. In the first week, the sockets of the test group presented a significantly (mean of 3.81 ± 0.54; p = 0.0138) higher level of healing when compared to the sockets of the control group (mean of 3.18 ± 0.65). The participants of control group reported a significantly (mean of 5.12 ± 1.08; p = 0.0128) higher level of postoperative pain when compared to the test group (mean of 4 ± 1.15). Also, the control group consumed a greater number of analgesics (mean of 1.75 ± 0.85; p = 0.0136) when compared to the test group (mean of 1 ± 1.15). The results of the present study demonstrate that whenever improved healing of the extraction socket is needed, the use of L-PRF should be considered. In addition, the use of L-PRF decreases postoperative pain and discomfort.