Platelet-rich plasma versus platelet-poor plasma in the management of chronic diabetic foot ulcers: a comparative study

Abstract

Non healing diabetic foot ulcers and the resulting potential amputations present significant costs to the health care system and reduce patient quality of life. The goal of diabetic foot ulcer treatment is to obtain wound closure as expeditiously as possible. The use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to enhance wound healing has increased dramatically over the last decade. However, controversies exist in the literature regarding the added benefit of this procedure. The aim of this study is to investigate the efficiency of platelet releasate on the healing of chronic diabetic ulcers in comparison with platelet-poor plasma (PPP). This study included 24 patients with chronic diabetic ulcers. They were systematically randomised into two groups: PRP group (n = 12) and PPP group (n = 12). The results showed that healing in PRP group was significantly faster (P < 0·005). PRP enhances healing of chronic diabetic foot ulcers.

© 2011 The Authors. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd and Medicalhelplines.com Inc.

Figures

Figure 1

Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) preparation in a petri‐dish.

Figure 2

Diabetic foot ulcer before application of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP).

Figure 3

Diabetic foot ulcer shown in Figure 2 completely healed 10 weeks after application of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP).

Figure 4

Diabetic foot ulcer on sole before application of platelet‐poor plasma (PPP).

Figure 5

Diabetic foot ulcer shown in Figure 4 did not heal after 20 weeks of application of platelet‐poor plasma (PPP).