COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF MATRIX ARCHITECTURE OF BIORESORBABLE SYNTHETIC GRAFT WITH AND WITHOUT I-PRF CONDITIONING USING SEM

Abstract

Background: Alloplastic synthetic bone graft matrices offer excellent osteoconductive properties but lack intrinsic osteoinductive potential, prompting interest in combining them with autologous platelet concentrates like injectable platelet-rich fibrin (I-PRF) to enhance their biological activity. Henceforth the aim of our study was to evaluate and compare the matrix architecture of a bioresorbable synthetic graft matrix with and without I PRF conditioning using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), in order to generate foundational evidence that may guide its clinical application in periodontal regenerative therapy. Methods & Methodology: This in-vitro comparative study used six standardized samples (1×1 mm) of a bioresorbable synthetic graft matrix, divided into Group A (uncoated) and Group B (I-PRF conditioned, immersed for 20 minutes), followed by gold-sputtering and SEM-EDS analysis at 500x, 1000x, and 1500x magnifications to assess pore architecture, fiber compaction, surface roughness, and elemental composition. Result: Group A exhibited a rough, highly porous, mineral-dominant surface (63.5% Ca, 34.5% P) with distinct interconnected macropores and granular crystalline morphology, while Group B showed a smoother, fibrin coated surface with reduced pore visibility and a carbon/nitrogen-dominant elemental profile (61.9% C, 7.7% N) reflecting fibrin infiltration. I-PRF conditioning bridged and masked the macropores of Group A, creating a web-like fibrous network that reduced apparent surface roughness and porosity. EDS mapping confirmed a marked shift from mineral-based to organic-based elemental composition following I-PRF treatment, corroborating the SEM surface findings. Conclusion: We conclude that, I-PRF conditioning meaningfully alters the pore architecture, fiber alignment, and surface composition of the bioresorbable synthetic graft matrix, imparting osteoinductive potential alongside its inherent osteoconductive properties.