Non-surgical management of oro-antral communication using platelet-rich fibrin: A review of the literature

Oro-antral communication (OAC) is an opening between the maxillary sinus and the oral cavity, which can provide a pathway to cause an infection of the maxillary sinus. Although surgical techniques propose many advantages, several drawbacks have been reported in the previous studies. Bioactive modifiers such as platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) are widely being used in oral surgery. Various studies have been conducted for closure of OACs using PRF. Due to the heterogeneity of the techniques found, we opted for a literature review to highlight the variety of techniques discussed in the literature. A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane databases was performed for published articles between 2014 and 2021. Keywords for OAC management and repair and inclusion criteria were used to screen articles for final review. Out of 195 articles found, 12 articles were included to the study. Eight studies performed simple direct application of PRF clots, 2 studies used PRF in combination with collagen membrane and in 2 studies the treatment plan was to use buccal advancement flap reinforced by PRF. There were several variations among approaches to the closure of OAC using PRF in terms of treatment planning, pre- and post-operative medication and preparation of PRF. Despite the mentioned variations, review of recent studies showed that all of the cases experienced full epithelialisation of OAC. This technique, without manipulation of any additional flaps and auto-grafts, has several advantages. However, further research, both experimental and clinical, is necessary to unravel the success rate of using PRF in the management of OACs.