Comparison of Platelet-Rich Plasma Dressing Versus Normal Saline Dressing for Chronic Non-Healing Ulcers: A Randomized Controlled Trial
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66344/jpad.v36i3.3485Keywords:
Chronic non-healing ulcer, Complete epithelialization, Normal saline dressing, Platelet-rich plasma, Wound healingAbstract
Background Chronic non-healing ulcers impose substantial morbidity and healthcare costs. Platelet-rich plasma may accelerate wound healing through growth factors, whereas normal saline provides conventional wound care.
Objective To compare platelet-rich plasma dressing versus normal saline dressing in patients with chronic non-healing ulcers.
Methods A total of 100 patients with chronic non-healing ulcers were randomized equally into platelet-rich plasma dressing and normal saline dressing groups. Diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, pressure ulcers, post-traumatic ulcers, and non-diabetic neuropathic ulcers were included. Ulcer area, complete epithelialization, healing time, pain score, wound infection, and surgical intervention were assessed over six weeks. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Independent samples t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, repeated measures analysis, and logistic regression were applied.
Results Follow-up was completed by 46 patients in the platelet-rich plasma group and 44 in the normal saline group; all randomized patients were included in intention-to-treat analysis. Complete epithelialization at week six occurred in 41 (82.0%) patients with platelet-rich plasma and 27 (54.0%) with normal saline (RR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.14-2.01, P=0.005). Mean percentage ulcer area reduction was 93.7±18.2% versus 67.7±41.6% (P<0.001). Median healing time was 24 (IQR 17-27) versus 35 days (IQR 33-40) (P<0.001). Wound infection occurred in 7 (14.0%) versus 17 (34.0%) patients (p=0.035). Platelet-rich plasma dressing remained associated with epithelialization on logistic regression.
Conclusion Platelet-rich plasma dressing was associated with better six-week wound healing response than normal saline dressing. These findings support cautious use as an adjunct to standardized chronic ulcer care.
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