Alvogyl Versus Platelet-Rich Fibrin for Healing of Alveolar Osteitis

Alveolar osteitis, commonly referred to as dry socket, is a frequent painful complication following tooth extraction. It is characterized by persistent or increasing postoperative pain, typically developing within the first few days after extraction, and may be associated with an empty extraction socket, foul odour, and delayed local healing. The condition can substantially affect patient comfort and quality of life and may require additional clinical management.

Several treatment approaches have been used for alveolar osteitis, including socket irrigation, local dressings, analgesics, antibiotics in selected circumstances, and regenerative materials. Alvogyl is a commonly used intra-alveolar dressing that is intended to provide symptomatic relief and protect the affected socket. Although it can provide rapid pain relief, concerns have been raised regarding its potential effect on the rate of socket healing.

Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is an autologous platelet concentrate prepared from the patient's own venous blood without the use of anticoagulants. During centrifugation, a fibrin-rich matrix containing platelets and leukocytes is formed. This matrix serves as a scaffold for tissue repair and provides a sustained release of biologically active mediators, including growth factors involved in angiogenesis, cellular proliferation, and wound healing. PRF has therefore been investigated as a regenerative treatment for extraction socket healing and alveolar osteitis.

Previous clinical studies comparing Alvogyl and PRF have reported differences in pain relief and socket healing. Some evidence suggests that Alvogyl may provide more rapid symptomatic pain relief, whereas PRF may promote more favourable or faster clinical healing. However, variation in study findings and treatment protocols indicates a need for further controlled clinical investigation.

This study is designed as a randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial comparing Alvogyl with PRF for the treatment of alveolar osteitis following third molar extraction. Eligible participants will be randomly allocated to receive either Alvogyl or an autologous PRF membrane. Both treatment groups will undergo standardized socket irrigation and debridement before placement of the assigned treatment. The extraction socket will subsequently be secured using sutures.

The primary purpose of the study is to compare healing outcomes between the two treatment approaches. Clinical assessment will include evaluation of pain intensity using a 0-10 visual analogue scale and assessment of the number of exposed socket walls. Participants will be assessed during postoperative follow-up to determine changes in pain and socket healing.

A total of 102 adult participants will be enrolled, with 51 participants allocated to each treatment group. The study will be conducted in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at CMH Medical College and Institute of Dentistry, Lahore. All procedures will be performed by the same surgical team under the supervision of an experienced consultant oral surgeon.

The study will provide comparative clinical evidence regarding the use of conventional Alvogyl dressing and autologous PRF for management of alveolar osteitis. The findings may contribute to evidence-based selection of treatment modalities aimed at reducing postoperative pain and improving healing of affected extraction sockets.

Inclusion criteria

• Adults aged 18 years or older.
• Participants of either sex.
• Patients presenting with alveolar osteitis following third molar extraction, diagnosed according to the study's operational definition.
• Patients willing to participate in the study and provide informed consent.
• Patients willing and able to attend the scheduled postoperative follow-up assessments.

Exclusion criteria

• Patients with a smoking habit.
• Patients with a history of bleeding disorders.
• Patients unwilling or unable to attend the required follow-up sessions.
• Patients with a history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, or renal disease.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.
• Patients using medications that may affect healing or study outcomes, including bisphosphonates, systemic steroids, or antidepressants.