A Comparative Study of Platelet-Rich Plasma and Normal Saline Dressings in the Treatment of Chronic Wounds: Platelet-Rich Plasma and Normal Saline Dressings in Chronic Wounds Treatment

Shahid Hussain; Asiya Shabbir

doi:10.54393/pjhs.v6i10.2736

Authors

Shahid Hussain Department of Surgery, Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
Asiya Shabbir Department of Surgery, Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur, Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54393/pjhs.v6i10.2736

Keywords:

Chronic Wounds, Platelet-Rich Plasma, PRP Dressing, Wound Healing, Diabetic Ulcers, Pressure Ulcers

Abstract

Chronic wounds pose a major challenge in clinical practice, often requiring advanced interventions. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) dressings, by releasing growth factors, have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional approaches. Objectives: To compare the efficacy of PRP versus normal saline (NS) dressings in promoting wound healing. Methods: This randomized controlled trial was conducted at the Department of Surgery, Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur, from April to October 2024. A total of 156 patients with chronic wounds were randomized into PRP (n = 78) or NS (n = 78) groups. Baseline characteristics were recorded, and patients were followed for six weeks. Healing outcomes were analyzed using Chi-square and t-tests, with significance set at p≤0.05. Results: The PRP group achieved significantly higher healing (91.0%) compared to the NS group (66.7%) (p=0.000). Subgroup analysis revealed greater efficacy of PRP in older patients, female, immobile individuals, and those with long-standing wounds. PRP also showed superior results in diabetic (p=0.007) and pressure ulcers (p=0.004), though not in venous ulcers (p=0.477). Conclusions: PRP enhances chronic wound healing compared to saline dressings, with particular benefits in high-risk patient groups. It is a safe and effective therapeutic option.

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