Topical Skin Application of Small-Molecule Antiplatelet Agent against Pressure Injury in Rat Models

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Dermatology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Intraoperative pressure injuries are a significant clinical concern, often resulting from prolonged patient positioning.
• Current prevention strategies for pressure injuries are limited, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches.
• Understanding skin barrier function and drug penetration is crucial for developing effective topical treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of small-molecule antiplatelet drugs for preventing pressure injuries.
• To evaluate the penetration characteristics of water-soluble tracers in normal and pressure-injured skin.
• To assess the efficacy of topical Trapidil in a rat model of pressure injury.

Main Methods:

• Assessed penetration of water-soluble tracers with varying molecular weights in ex vivo skin models.
• Applied Trapidil topically to rats before, during, and after compression, with contralateral controls.
• Utilized digital imaging, spectrophotometry, temperature measurement, and Evans Blue injection for outcome assessment.

Main Results:

• Water-soluble tracers penetrated pressure-injured skin more readily than normal skin, with smaller molecules showing greater penetration.
• Topical Trapidil application significantly reduced ulcer occurrence and size, increased gray value, and lowered skin temperature compared to controls.
• Trapidil treatment improved skin circulation and perfusion, as evidenced by enhanced Evans Blue distribution.

Conclusions:

• Topical application of small-molecule antiplatelet agents, such as Trapidil, shows promise in preventing and treating pressure injuries.
• The findings suggest that improved post-decompression ischemia management is a key mechanism of action.
• This study provides a novel therapeutic insight for the prevention and management of intraoperative pressure injuries.