Narrative Review
CURRENT METHODS FOR THE PREPARATION OF NON-TRANSFUSIONAL BLOOD-DERIVED COMPONENTS
1 Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
2 Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, Pescara Hospital, Pescara, Italy
3 Department of Research, Bioface/PgO/UCAM, Montevideo, Uruguay; Department of Biotechnology, Universidad Católica de Murcia (UCAM), Murcia, Spain
4 Department of Dentistry, United Hospitals of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
5 Department of Dentistry, United Hospitals of Lanciano, Lanciano, Italy
Correspondence to:
Department of Innovative Technologies in Medicine and Dentistry,
University of Chieti-Pescara,
Via Dei Vestini 31,
66100 Chieti, Italy
European Journal of Musculoskeletal Diseases 2026 September-December 15(3): Ahead of Print
https://doi.org/10.82093/ejmd/2026v15iss3_6
Received: 28 August 2026 Accepted: 1 October 2026
Abstract
Non-transfusional hemocomponents (NTHs) are autologous blood-derived products rich in growth factors that may play an important role in bone regeneration by promoting mesenchymal stem cell proliferation and differentiation. Despite their increasing clinical use, standardized classification and preparation protocols remain lacking, making their application and comparison difficult. In this review, we summarize the literature on NTH preparation methods, comparing platelet concentrates, gels, and lysates according to their preparation protocols, biological properties, and clinical practicality. Particular attention is given to differences in centrifugation techniques, cellular composition, and fibrin architecture, all of which may influence growth factor release and regenerative potential. A clearer understanding of these differences may help clinicians select the most appropriate NTH for clinical use. Further categorization and standardization are needed to optimize the use of NTHs and promote greater consensus in regenerative medicine.
Keywords: biomaterials, growth factors, non-transfusional hemocomponents, platelet-rich plasma, regeneration