Platelet-derived growth factor stimulates bone fill and rate of attachment level gain: results of a large multicenter randomized controlled trial.

Background: Growth factors are generally accepted to be essential mediators of tissue repair via well-established mechanisms of action that include stimulatory effects on angiogenesis and cellular proliferation, ingrowth, differentiation, and matrix biosynthesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate in a large-scale, prospective, blinded, and randomized controlled clinical trial the safety and effectiveness of purified recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor (rhPDGF-BB) mixed with a synthetic beta-tricalcium phosphate (beta-TCP) matrix for the treatment of advanced periodontal osseous defects at 6 months of healing.

Methods: Eleven clinical centers enrolled 180 subjects, each requiring surgical treatment of a 4 mm or greater intrabony periodontal defect and meeting all inclusion and exclusion criteria.