Purpose
This study aimed to compare platelet-rich plasma (PRP) versus conventional
ordinary dressing in the management of diabetic foot wounds.
Background
Diabetic foot wound treatment poses a considerable burden on the medical system,
with long waiting times for healing in the public hospital system. PRP enables
efficient treatment of many patients with hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, and
analgesic substances.
Patients and methods
This prospective study was focused on 80 diabetic feet wounds. Patients were
divided into two groups: group A received conventional ordinary dressing (N=40,
50%) and group B received PRP dressing (N=40, 50%). The mean follow-up period
was 12 weeks.
Results
The estimated time of wound healing was 12 weeks for 82.5% of the patients in
group A and 97.5% of the patients in group B; the PRP group was found to be more
effective with fewer complications, less infection, exudates, pain, and failed healing:
17.5, 12.5, 32.5, and 2.5% versus 27.5, 42.5, 62.5, and 17.5% in group B,
respectively (P=0.001). The highest healing rate was observed for both groups
at the fourth week, but it was better for the PRP group (group B): 0.89±0.13 versus
0.49±0.11 cm2/week in group A.
Conclusion
There have been considerable advancements in the use of PRP in therapeutic
processes in recent years in tissue regeneration therapy. PRP is a powerful tool for
the treatment of chronic wounds and very promising for diabetic foot wounds; PRP
enables healing, and reduces infection rates and exudates.