A Complete Introduction and Overview of PRF Tubes

PRF tubes are an essential part of the Choukroun PRF process. Discovered and defined by Dr. Joseph Choukroun in 2001, PRF, or (Platelet-Rich Fibrin), is a special centrifuge protocol used in regenerative medicine. PRF tubes like A-PRF tubes are used both for blood collection and processing the samples in a Choukroun centrifuge.

The procedure begins with drawing blood from the patient. Samples are spun in PRF tubes following a specific protocol. The protocol (speed and duration) determines what type of PRF matrix is produced. The PRF material contains platelets cytokines, leukocytes, bone morphogenic proteins, and abundant growth factors. Widely used in dentistry, PRF can provide enhanced healing and regeneration to ensure the best outcomes. The material processed in PRF tubes is especially suited to periodontal surgery and bone grafting procedures.

Compared to other techniques like Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), PRF doesn’t require any anticoagulants or additives. It is a completely natural autogenous solution, so there’s no risk of cross-contamination or allergic reaction. Dr. Choukroun’s research has demonstrated that PRF treatment enhances healing and tissue repair without complication. PRF matrix is denser than PRP, and the different protocols prepared with PRF tubes result in products that range from membranes to clots and even liquid injectable PRF products.

The PRF tubes used for treatment might seem like a small part of the bigger picture, but they’re particularly important. The PRF tubes selected can help to guide the surgeon, while also ensuring that the right protocol is selected so that the best outcome is achieved.

Overview of PRF Tubes

PRF tubes can be made from either medical-grade plastic or glass. The material is free of additives to ensure that the PRF material is uncompromised. A-PRF uses glass tubes, while S-PRF and I-PRF+ use plastic tubes.

The tubes are designed to be used in a centrifuge, so their shape is important. The design ensures that the PRF matrix is developed gradually while spinning.

The size of these tubes varies depending on the protocol. I-PRF+ tubes have a 13ml capacity, while A-PRF and S-PRF tubes have a 10ml capacity. Regardless of the desired protocol, all tubes are made to be non-toxic and non-pyrogenic.

There are subtle differences between tubes for PRF and other tubes used for blood collection and centrifugation. Differences can include materials, size, and texture of the tubes. Let’s take a look at three key protocols to explore the differences in the tubes that are used.

A-PRF

The A-PRF protocol is suited to create a clot, membrane, or plug for sinus lifts, bone grafting, extractions, implants, periodontology, and general healing.

Red A-PRF blood collection and preparation tubes are made from additive-free glass and have a capacity of 10ml. These PRF tubes are designed to provide an efficient vacuum effect when used with blood draw butterfly needles, so blood collection is completed quickly. Each tube is sterile and individually packed.

A-PRF tubes (SKU: PRF-A-PRF+) are unique from other PRF tubes in that they are made from glass. They are Grade II medical devices. Only Dr. Choukroun tubes are approved for this PRF protocol and are available to order from Dental Implant Technologies.

I-PRF+

The I-PRF+ protocol is an injectable protocol developed for orthopedics, aesthetic procedures, and general procedures where the clinician aims to deliver beneficial platelets and growth compounds to a treatment site. Purple I-PRP+ tubes (SKU: PRF-I-PRF+) are made from surgical plastic that is free of additives. The volume is slightly higher than other tubes, including A-PRF tubes, at 13ml.

These tubes are unique with an interior textured surface that helps to prevent the formation of clots. Combined with the appropriate centrifuge protocol, these tubes create an effective liquid PRF product ready to be injected for aesthetics, orthopedics, and healing.

S-PRF

PRF is the perfect protocol for bone grafting treatments. The addition of PRF into a grafting site can enhance healing and help to create a cellular matrix to provide both nutrients and scaffolding for new bone formation. S-PRF is a special protocol designed to develop a sticky autologous material that can be combined with particulate bone grafting material for “sticky bone”. This material is easy to manipulate, making it ideal for in-office procedures.

When combined with particulate, it can stabilize and immobilize the graft. It is used for guided bone regeneration and sinus augmentation. Green S-PRF tubes (SKU: PRF-S-PRF) are made from surgical plastic with a proprietary textured inner surface to aid in the centrifuge protocol and ensure the correct consistency.

Are Colors Important?

The colors of PRF blood collection and preparation tubes are important. They allow for an easy visual reminder of the protocol being used. The tubes are also color-coded to the Choukroun Duo-Quattro Centrifuge (SKU: PRF-DUOQUATTRO), so selecting the protocol on the rotary dial is simpler and there’s no risk of using an incorrect protocol for the procedure.

The material, design, and colors of PRF blood tubes are critical to the success of dental and aesthetic procedures. Order the most reliable PRF tubes from Dental Implant Technologies.