Platelet Rich Fibrin+1.2% Atorvastatin in Treatment of Mandibular Degree II Furcation Defects

Background: A variety of regenerative materials have been tried since many years for the treatment of furcation defects. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), a pool reservoir of platelet concentrate with growth factors and Atorvastatin (ATV), a potent member of statin group are known to promote periodontal tissue regeneration. The aim of the present study is to explore the effectiveness of PRF combined with 1.2% ATV gel in treatment of mandibular degree II furcation defects in comparison to PRF and open flap debridement (OFD) alone.

Methods: Eighty two mandibular furcation defects were treated with either OFD alone (Group 1), OFD with PRF (Group 2), and OFD with PRF+1.2% ATV gel (Group 3).Clinical parameters like probing depth (PD), relative vertical clinical attachment level (RVCAL), relative horizontal clinical attachment level (RHCAL), modified sulcus bleeding index (mSBI) and site specific plaque index (PI) were recorded at baseline and 9 months post-operatively. The radiological assessment of bone defect fill was done at baseline and 9 months, using computer-aided software.

Inclusion criteria

• Buccal degree II furcation defects in endodontically vital, asymptomatic mandibular first and second molars with a radiolucency in the furcation area on an intraoral periapical radiograph with probing depth (PD) ≥ 5mm and horizontal ≥ PD 3mm after phase I therapy i.e, scaling and root planing (SRP);
• No history of antibiotic or periodontal therapy in the preceding 6 months.

Exclusion criteria

• Aggressive periodontitis patients
• Systemic conditions known to affect the periodontal status;
• Medications known to affect the outcomes of periodontal therapy;
• Hematological disorders and insufficient platelet count (<100,000/mm3);
• Pregnancy/lactation;
• Smoking and tobacco use in any form
• Immunocompromised individuals;
• Those having unacceptable oral hygiene (plaque index [PI] >1.5).
• Teeth with furcation involvement, non-vital teeth, and carious teeth indicated for restorations and mobility of at least grade II were also excluded.