Endodontic management of open apex using MTA and platelet – rich fibrin membrane barrier: A newer matrix concept

Objectives: Endodontic management of open apex using MTA and platelet – rich fibrin membrane as an apical matrix barrier. Study design: An immature tooth with pulpal necrosis and periapical pathology imposes a great difficulty to the endodontist. Endodontic treatment options for such teeth consist of conventional apexification procedure with and without apical barriers. This article demonstrates the use of an apical matrix barrier in form of a platelet rich fibrin membrane for stabilization of MTA in root end apexification procedure. PRF is an autologous fibrin matrix containing a large quantity of platelet and leukocyte cytokines, which enhance healing by release of growth factors. These case reports present apexification and successful healing with combined use of MTA and PRF membrane as an apical barrier Results: PRF membrane can serve as an efficient apical matrix for condensation of MTA. Combination of PRF membrane and MTA is an effective method for management of difficult cases of open apex. PRF is a strong fibrin membrane enriched with platelet and growth factors that accelerate periapical healing. Key words:Apexification, apical barrier, platelet rich fibrin (PRF), mineral trioxide (MTA).