Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma on Fibrocartilage, Cartilage, and Bone Repair in Temporomandibular Joint

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to explore the potential use of platelet-rich-plasma (PRP) in the treatment of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ-OA). Materials and Methods: Surgical defects were created bilaterally on the condylar fibrocartilage, hyaline cartilage, and bone to induce an osteoarthritic TMJ in rabbits. PRP was applied to the right joints of the rabbits (PRP group), and the left joints received physiologic saline (control group). After 4 weeks, the rabbits were sacrificed for histologic and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examinations. The data were analyzed statistically. Results: The new bone regeneration was significantly greater in the PRP group (P <.011). Although the regeneration of the fibrocartilage and hyaline cartilage was greater in the PRP group, no statistically significant difference was found between the 2 groups. SEM showed better ultrastructural architecture of the collagen fibrils in the PRP group. Conclusions: PRP might enhance the regeneration of bone in TMJ-OA.