Intraoperative Platelet-Rich Plasma Application Improves Scar Healing After Cesarean Section: A Prospective...

Background: Cesarean delivery is a frequent surgical procedure associated with postoperative scarring, which may impact both the aesthetic and functional recovery of patients. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a concentration of autologous platelets containing bioactive growth factors, has shown promising effects in promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration. However, its efficacy in enhancing cesarean wound healing remains underexplored. Methods: This single-arm prospective observational study included 50 patients undergoing cesarean section who received intraoperative PRP in two stages: 5 mL applied before hysterorrhaphy and 5 mL injected subcutaneously before skin closure. Scars were assessed at 7 and 40 days using six validated scales (Manchester, Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS), Vancouver, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), and REEDA (Redness, Edema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, Approximation). Hematological parameters (hemoglobin, hematocrit, leukocyte count, and platelet count) were monitored to correlate systemic inflammatory response and healing progression. Statistical analysis included the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Pearson correlation. Results: Mean scar scores improved significantly from 8.88 ± 2.13 at day 7 to 6.46 ± 1.23 at day 40 (p < 0.001). Hematological parameters improved between day 7 and day 40, reflecting the expected course of postoperative recovery; these were considered secondary outcomes. Exploratory analyses revealed correlations between hemoglobin and POSAS (r = 0.42, p < 0.05), leukocyte count and REEDA (r = 0.68, p < 0.01), and platelet count and POSAS (r = -0.48, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Intraoperative PRP administration significantly enhanced postoperative scar healing after cesarean delivery and was associated with reduced inflammation and improved hematological recovery. These findings support the use of PRP as an adjunctive regenerative therapy in obstetric surgery. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to validate efficacy of the intervention, and moreover long-term outcomes.