Platelet-Rich Fibrin
Also written as: PRF — Platelet-Rich Fibrin
A second-generation platelet concentrate derived from autologous blood, used as a bioactive scaffold to enhance wound healing and tissue regeneration in periodontal procedures.
Full Definition
Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is prepared by centrifuging the patient's own venous blood without anticoagulants, yielding a fibrin clot enriched with platelets, growth factors (including PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF), and leucocytes. It is used in periodontal surgery as a membrane, graft additive, or socket fill material to accelerate soft and hard tissue healing. PRF is distinguished from platelet-rich plasma (PRP), its first-generation precursor, by the absence of thrombin or other exogenous activators. Editors should render the abbreviation PRF in capitals after defining it in full on first use, and should verify that the manuscript specifies the PRF preparation protocol, as multiple variants (L-PRF, A-PRF, i-PRF) exist with differing centrifugation parameters.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate 'platelet-rich' as a compound modifier. Distinguish PRF from PRP. Multiple preparation protocols exist; editors should verify the specific variant is named.
In Context
- "Platelet-rich fibrin membranes were used to cover the bone graft in all test sites, while the control sites received a collagen membrane alone." — Randomised controlled trial methods section
- "The authors should clarify whether L-PRF or A-PRF was used, as centrifugation speed and time differ substantially between protocols." — Peer review comment