Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a by-product of the centrifugation of a patient’s blood, which contains a high concentration of platelets, leukocytes, and growth factors. PRF is commonly used in regenerative medicine due to its potential to stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. However, one question that often arises is how long PRF can be stored and still maintain its therapeutic properties. In this blog, we will discuss the shelf life of PRF at room temperature and low temperature.
Shelf Life of PRF at Room Temperature
PRF has been shown to maintain its therapeutic properties for up to 7 days when stored at room temperature. However, it is important to note that the exact shelf life of PRF at room temperature can vary depending on a number of factors such as the initial quality of the blood sample, the processing technique used, and the storage conditions.
To maximize the shelf life of PRF at room temperature, it is important to store it in a sterile container that is sealed tightly to prevent contamination. It is also recommended to store the PRF away from direct sunlight, as exposure to light can degrade some of the growth factors present in the PRF.
Shelf Life of PRF at Low Temperature
To extend the shelf life of PRF, it is possible to store it at low temperatures such as in a refrigerator or freezer. Studies have shown that PRF can be stored for up to 6 months in a freezer at -80°C without any significant loss of its therapeutic properties.
When storing PRF at low temperatures, it is important to use a sterile container and to label the container with the date of preparation to ensure that the PRF is used before it reaches its expiration date.
It is important to note that freezing and thawing cycles can affect the quality of the PRF. Therefore, it is recommended to divide the PRF into small aliquots before freezing to avoid multiple thawing cycles.
Conclusion
In summary, PRF can be stored for up to 7 days at room temperature and up to 6 months in a freezer at -80°C without significant loss of its therapeutic properties. However, the shelf life of PRF can vary depending on the initial quality of the blood sample, the processing technique used, and the storage conditions. It is important to store PRF in sterile containers, away from direct sunlight, and to label the container with the date of preparation to ensure that it is used before it reaches its expiration date.
