Platelet Rich Fibrin

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a by-product of blood (plasma) rich in platelets. Until now, its use has been confined to the hospital setting. This was due mainly to the cost of separating the platelets from the blood and the large amount of blood needed to produce a suitable quantity of platelets. New technology permits doctors to harvest and produce a sufficient quantity of platelets from only 20-50 cc of blood drawn from the patient during outpatient visits. New technology also allows stable fillers to be created 100% from the patient’s blood.

Why All The Excitement About PRF?

PRF permits the body to take advantage of the normal healing pathways at a greatly accelerated rate. During the healing process, the body rushes many cell types to the wound to initiate the healing process. Platelets are one of those cell types. Platelets perform many functions, including forming a blood clot and releasing growth factors (GF) into the wound. These growth factors, platelet-derived growth factors (PDGF), transforming growth factor beta (TGF), and insulin-like growth factor (ILGF), function to assist the body in repairing itself by stimulating stem cells to regenerate new tissue. The more growth factors released and sequestered into the wound, the more stem cells are stimulated to produce new tissue. Thus, PRF permits the body to heal faster and more efficiently.

A particularly important component is bone morphogenic protein (BMP). In research studies, it has been shown to induce the formation of new bone. This is significant for rehabilitating an arthritic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) which has lost bone volume.

Don't Suffer in Pain!

Dr. Russell can help diagnose and resolve pain associated with TMJ disorders. Contact us to schedule your consultation today!

Call us: (360) 915-9832

PRF Has Many Clinical Applications

PRF can be used in joints throughout the body that have experienced trauma or chronic inflammation and injury, including the TMJ. It can also strengthen and heal ligament and tendon strains and tears. It is widely used to aid bone grafting for dental implants and other oral defects.

PRF Also Has Many Advantages

Safety: PRF is a by-product of the patient’s blood; therefore, disease transmission is not an issue.

Convenience: PRF can be generated in the doctor’s office while the patient undergoes an outpatient procedure or visit.

Faster Healing: The supersaturation of the wound with PRF, and thus growth factors, increases tissue synthesis and faster tissue regeneration.

Cost-Effectiveness: Since PRF harvesting is done with only 20-50 cc of blood in the doctor’s office, the patient need not incur the expense of the harvesting procedure in the hospital or at a blood bank.

Ease of Use: PRF is easy to handle, and altering its preparation can allow for a liquid or bio-filler (gel-like), depending on the clinical need.

Frequently Asked Questions About PRF

Is PRF safe?

Yes. During the outpatient procedure, a small amount of your blood is drawn. This blood is placed in the specialized PRF centrifuge machine and spun down. In less than 15 minutes, the PRF is formed and ready to use.

Should PRF be used in all TMJ cases?

Not necessarily. It is most beneficial when there has been significant hard or soft tissue damage that requires rehabilitation or when the jaw has a limited range of motion.

Will my insurance cover the costs?

Unfortunately not. The patient pays the cost of the PRF application (approximately $500).

Are there any contraindications to PRF?

Very few. Patients with bleeding disorders or hematologic diseases do not qualify for this in-office procedure. Check with Dr. Russell to determine if PRF is right for you.

PRF Scientific Article