THE ROLE OF PLATELET-RICH PLASMA IN THE TREATMENT OF DIABETIC FOOT ULCERS

Abstract

Background: Diabetic foot ulcer treatment places a considerable strain on the medical system, with long waiting time for healing. Platelet Rich Plasma allows effective treatment of many patients with hemostatic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic substances. Objective: To find out the advantages and efficacy of Platelet Rich Plasma versus conventional ordinary dressing in management of diabetic foot ulcer and wound. Patients and methods: This prospective randomized controlled study was conducted on 20 diabetic patients having non-healing feet ulcers. Patients were randomly allocated into two equal groups; Group A: Conventional ordinary dressing, and Group B: PRP dressing. Follow-up period was for 4-months. Results: Most of ulcers healed within the estimated time for this study (16 weeks) or less and there were satisfactory results (less complications) in PRP group (B). Also, the rate of healing was good in group (B) with p-value <0.05. Conclusions: PRP was an influential tool for treating chronic ulcers, so long as healing, reducing infection rates, besides its preventive action, which reduces amputation rates; So PRP is considered a very hopeful method for chronic ulcer dressing especially diabetic foot wounds than conventional ordinary dressing.