Platelet gel: a new therapeutic tool with great potential

Abstract

Chronic wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, represent a serious clinical problem for patients and clinicians. Management of these wounds has a strong economic impact worldwide. Complications resulting from injuries are a frequent cause of morbidity and mortality. Chronic wounds lead to infections, painful dressings and prolonged hospitalisation. This results in poor patient Quality of Life and in high healthcare costs. Platelet concentrates (PC) are defined as autologous or allogeneic platelet derivatives with a platelet concentration higher than baseline. PC are widely used in different areas of Regenerative Medicine in order to enhance wound healing processes; they include platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelet gel (PG), platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), serum eye drops (E-S), and PRP eye drops (E-PRP). This review highlights the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet gel (PG) preparation for clinical use.

Conflict of interest statement

The Authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1

Role of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) in wound healing processes. PLT: platelet; EGF: epidermal growth factor; PDGF: platelet-derived growth factor; VEGF: vascular-endothelial growth factor; CTGF: connective tissue growth factor; TGF-β: transforming growth factor-β; FGF: fibroblast growth factor.

Figure 2

Functional roles of platelets (PLT).

Figure 3

Flow-chart in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) preparation. PPP: platelet-poor plasma; RBC: red blood cell.