A NOVEL PROTOCOL FOR ENHANCING THE ANTIMICROBIAL EFFICACY OF PLATELET-RICHFIBRIN: AN IN VITRO STUDY

Background: Since its inception, platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) has undergone numerous modifications to obtain a biomaterial capable of promoting regeneration. Given its limited antimicrobial activity, research is now being carried out to enhance PRF’s antimicrobial efficacy. In this regard, this study aimed to enhance the antimicrobial efficacy of PRF by immersing it in antibiotic solutions. Materials and methods: PRF membranes procured from 10 blood samples were equally divided into 3 parts and allocated into Group I (PRF alone), Group II (PRF immersed in 5mg/ml Tetracycline hydrochloride solution), and Group III (PRF immersed in 12mg/ml Amoxicillin-Potassium clavulanate solution). All samples were tested for antimicrobial efficacy following 24, 48, and 96 hours incubation. Results: Group I showed no antimicrobial activity. The mean values and standard deviations of zones of inhibition of the groups II and III were 19.5(2.06)mm and 20.8(2.52)mm respectively, following 24 hours of the incubation period. This had slightly declined to 19.1(2.18)mm (Group II) and 20.3(1.94)mm (Group III), after 48 hours. Bacterial growth was detected in all the groups after 96 hours. The antimicrobial activity differed significantly between groups I & II (P = 0.000) and I & III (P = 0.000) following 24, and 48 hours of incubation periods. Conclusion: Antibiotic-immersed PRF exhibited improved antimicrobial efficacy sustained for 48 hours. This enhancement could potentially reduce the need for postoperative systemic antibiotics in regenerative procedures by creating a bacteria-free environment. As a result, this method may facilitate uneventful wound healing and desired regeneration while mitigating the adversities of systemic antibiotic therapy.