Soft tissue augmentation of the face with autologous platelet-derived growth factors and tricalcium phosphate. Microtomography evaluation of mice

Background: The platelets used in oral, maxillofacial, and plastic surgery are generally grouped as concentrated platelet-rich plasma. The general principle of production consists of a centrifugation, making it possible to eliminate red blood cells, then acellular plasma, to preserve only the concentrated platelets. Objective: The aim of the present study was that micro porous tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) mixed with autologous platelet-derived growth factors could be an alternative to fat and hyaluronic acid which are widely used for oral and maxillofacial soft tissue augmentation. Methods: Ten female, 6 to 8-week-old black-haired mice were selected. On 1 cheek was injected the gel of tricalcium phosphate/autologous platelet-derived growth factors, while on the other cheek, was left empty and was used as control. The animals were killed after 8 weeks. Investigator evaluation was based on microtomography observation and comparison of control and test. Results: The microtomography technique demonstrated amorphous radiopaque images projected in the soft tissue parts of each paramedian region of the right cheek, in those sites corresponding to the injection of the gel of tricalcium phosphate/autologous platelet-derived growth factor. Eight weeks after surgery, β-TCP granules were clearly visible with most remaining within the cheek. The margins of the β-TCP granules were clear and not diffused within the vicinity of the tissues. Conclusion: The results indicate that micro β-tricalcium phosphate Ca 3 (PO 4) 2 mixed with autologous platelet-derived growth factors material was able to create a lasting three-dimensional soft tissue augmentation and is a promising biomaterial for soft tissue augmentation as a scaffold for cells.