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Updated: Jan 28, 2026
Characterization of Leukocyte-platelet Rich Fibrin, A Novel Biomaterial
Published on: September 29, 2015
A patient journey mapping study of lived experiences during platelet-rich fibrin gel therapy for venous leg ulcers
Feifei Cui1, Zhen Xu2, Rongting Wang1
1Department of Nursing, The Affiliated Dongyang People's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Dongyang, Zhejiang, China.
Background:
Active venous leg ulcers (VLUs), characterized by high recurrence and complexity of treatment, place patients under a dual physiological and psychological stress. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) shows biological therapeutic potential, but current research predominantly focuses on its clinical efficacy through quantitative measures such as wound healing rates, leaving a significant gap in understanding the holistic therapeutic experience and multidimensional psychological-cognitive journey of patients undergoing this novel treatment. This gap limits the development of patient-centered care strategies that could optimize both biological and psychosocial outcomes.
Objective And Methods:
This study aimed to identify key stages and touchpoints where patient needs, distress, and decision-making are most pronounced during PRF gel therapy, by employing patient journey mapping to visualize and analyze the holistic treatment experience. A descriptive phenomenology study using semi-structured interviews was conducted in 13 active VLU patients from June to December 2024. The data were analyzed using the seven-step Colaizzi method to identify themes and to construct a dynamic journey model that integrates cognition, experience, and emotions.
Results:
The analysis revealed four core themes: pre-treatment cognitive dissonance and hope; treatment-phase challenges; post-treatment biopsychosocial shifts; and dynamic anxiety-hope oscillation.
Conclusion:
Patients reported that PRF gel therapy, within the context of comprehensive wound care, was associated with enhanced wound healing and improved psychological wellbeing. The proposed patient journey map translates these lived experiences into a structured framework, offering actionable insights for implementing patient-centered care and optimizing management strategies for refractory VLUs.
Implications:
Clinically, this framework aids in identifying high-need phases of the treatment journey and provides a basis for tailoring patient education and support, ultimately helping to improve both clinical workflows and patient engagement in PRF-based wound management.
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