Effect of Platelet-rich Plasma on Burn Wounds according to Time of Application: An Experimental Study on Rats

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: One of the main subjects that burn researches are focused on is saving the zone of stasis. Platelet-rich plasma stimulates angiogenesis, promoting vascular in-growth and fibroblast proliferation. In addition, platelet-rich plasma functions as haemostatic agent by forming a fibrin clot. Also application of platelet-rich plasma enhances wound-healing in both soft and hard tissue. In this study, the effect of the platelet-rich plasma on the zone of stasis was evaluated. METHODS: Sixteen F344/N Slc Inbred Rats were used and randomly separated into four groups. Autologous platelet-rich plasma was harvested and applied to each group of burn wound model at different times. RESULTS: After 20 days, burn wounds of each group healed well. However, healing speed was different in each group. The group to which platelet-rich plasma was applied 4 hours after burn injury had healed about 1.38 times faster than control group. CONCLUSION: The results showed that platelet-rich plasma is an effective substance for saving the zone of stasis. It is not only well-known, but also easy to harvest and easy to use. Thus autologous platelet-rich plasma could be a valuable addition to existing burn treatment methods.