Role of Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) in the Management of Non-Healing Ulcers: A Prospective Observational Study
Keywords:
Platelet-rich fibrin, nonhealing ulcers, cost-effectiveAbstract
Background:
Non-healing ulcers represent a significant public health concern, leading to considerable disability and reduced quality of life. Autologous platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) has emerged as a promising, biologically active scaffold that promotes wound healing.
Objective:
To evaluate the efficacy of PRF in the treatment of chronic, non-healing leg ulcers.
Methods:
This prospective study included 10 patients aged over 18 years with chronic leg ulcers (>8 weeks' duration) unresponsive to conventional therapies. Exclusion criteria included bleeding disorders, pregnancy, lactation, anticoagulant use, and deep ulcers with exposed structures. PRF was derived from the patient’s blood and applied once weekly for a maximum of five weeks or until complete healing. Ulcer dimensions were recorded at each visit, and serial photographs were taken.
Results:
The average age of the patients was 41.2 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 2:1. The mean ulcer area measured 7.22 cm², and the average duration of ulcers before treatment was 5.1 months. Underlying causes included Hansen’s disease (n=4), diabetic foot ulcers (n=3), venous ulcers (n=2), and one case of a neuropathic ulcer. Complete healing was achieved in all cases, with no adverse events or recurrence noted during the 3-month follow-up period.
Conclusion:
PRF is a safe, effective, and cost-efficient treatment for non-healing leg ulcers, demonstrating significant potential for wider clinical use.
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References
Varma K, Kumar U, Agrawal S. Efficacy of autologous platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in management of non-healing ulcers in Hansen’s disease. IP Indian J Clin Exp Dermatol. 2022;8(4):252-256.
Dorjay K, Sinha S. Platelet-rich Fibrin in Nonhealing Leg Ulcers: A Simple and Effective Therapeutic Option. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2021;14(2):160-165.
Hart J. Inflammation. 2: Its role in the healing of chronic wounds. J Wound Care 2002; 11:245-9.
Dohan Ehrenfest DM, Bielecki T, Jimbo R, Barbé G, Del Corso M, Inchingly F, et al. Do the fibrin architecture and leukocyte content influence the growth factor release of platelet concentrates? An evidence-based answer comparing a pure platelet-rich plasma (P-PRP) gel and a leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF). Curr Pharm Biotechnology 2012; 13:1145 52.
Saravanamuthu S, Suryanarayan S, Budamakuntala L, Suresh DH. Autologous platelet-rich plasma in chronic venous ulcers: study of 17 cases. J Cutan Aesthet Surg 2013; 6:97-9.
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