Platelet-rich Fibrin Formation was delayed in Plastic Tubes

Introduction: Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is used in many regenerative treatments. Preparing PRF in glass tubes requires quick handling and generates biohazard concerns about silica contamination and glass breakage. Using plastic tubes may be an alternative to glass tubes.

Objectives: This study investigated the formation of PRF prepared in polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS) tubes compared with glass tubes.

Methodology: PRF was prepared from human blood (n=20) in PP, PS, and glass tubes. The time required for PRF clot formation and retraction from the tube wall were observed. The PDGF-AB, TGF-β1 levels, and the gross/SEM appearance of the PRF clots were also evaluated.

Results: The PRF clots in PP and PS tubes formed and retracted significantly slower compared with those in glass tubes. The PDGF-AB levels in the PRF from PP, PS, and glass tubes were not significantly different. Although the TGF-β1 levels in the PRF from PP and glass tubes were not different, that from the PRF from PS tubes was significantly higher. The gross structure and SEM appearance of PRF from the three tube types were similar.

Conclusion: The slow clot formation in PP and PS tubes can extend PRF handling time while retaining PDGF-AB level and fibrin appearance. Owing to this delay in clot formation, we could obtain the plasma without adding any anticoagulant chemical agents. The plasma can be used for accelerating bone regeneration as platelet-rich plasma.