Comparison between PRP and PRFM on FTSG healing profile: Macroscopic, microscopic and ELISA evaluation

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Wound Healing Research
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) are known for wound healing benefits.
• Their application in full-thickness skin graft (FTSG) healing remains understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of PRP and PRFM in accelerating FTSG healing.
• To evaluate the impact of these autologous preparations on the wound healing cascade.

Main Methods:

• A preclinical study utilizing a porcine model (n=5) for FTSG implantation.
• Analysis included macroscopic, extracellular matrix, microscopic (inflammatory cells, fibroblasts), and ELISA (growth factors) assessments at multiple time points (days 1-30).
• ImageJ software was employed for quantitative analysis of macroscopic and matrix data.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were observed in FTSG survival rates across PRP, PRFM, and control groups via macroscopic, ECM, and ELISA evaluations.
• Microscopic analysis revealed increased levels of neutrophils (PMN), macrophages, and fibroblasts in both PRP and PRFM groups.
• PRFM treatment showed a more pronounced increase in these cellular components compared to PRP and the control group.

Conclusions:

• Both PRP and PRFM, as autologous platelet concentrates, effectively accelerate wound healing in FTSG.
• PRFM exhibits superior performance due to a greater induction of key cellular mediators like PMN, macrophages, and fibroblasts, suggesting enhanced wound healing activity.