Blood Collection for Autologous Blood-Derived Product Preparation: Technique and Application

Background: In periodontics, interest in use of autologous blood-derived products (ABPs) has increased due to demonstrated safety, enhanced initial healing, and for some applications, superior clinical outcomes. Periodontists commonly place peripheral intravenous catheters for moderate sedation, thus encountering opportunities to utilize ABPs routinely. The purpose of this report is to describe a safe blood collection technique for ABP preparation and define typical blood volume requirements for periodontal procedures. Methods: Five cases requiring various amounts of liquid and membrane-formed platelet-rich fibrin are presented. Case 1 involves treatment of an infrabony periodontal defect. Case 2 illustrates alveolar ridge preservation at a maxillary right second premolar site. Case 3 demonstrates repair of a defect related to nasopalatine duct cyst removal. Cases 4 and 5 illustrate the use of PRF in sinus elevation and root coverage, respectively. Results: Use of PRF in the presented cases added minimal procedural time and expense. Blood samples varied from 20 to 60 ml in volume. There were no complications related to blood collection or use of PRF. Each patient reported minimal discomfort limited to the first few postoperative days. Favorable early healing was observed in each case. Conclusions: The blood collection method described in this report, which is consistent with published standards of practice, necessitates few additional steps and supplies for practitioners already placing peripheral intravenous catheters. Blood volumes necessary for typical procedures in periodontics are safe and well below maximum attainable samples.