Platelet-Rich Plasma Versus Autologous Fat Graft for Chronic Wound Management in Low-Resource Settings: A Single-Center Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Autologous fat grafts (AFGs) and platelet-rich plasmas (PRPs) are useful adjuncts to healing of chronic wounds. In the resource-limited setting, PRP is the more attractive option owing to its ease of use. There is, however, a paucity of data comparing the two. Methods: In this single-center randomized controlled trial, we recruited 56 participants in the AFG (26) and PRP (30) groups. Bed preparation and standard dressings were done, then AFGs or PRPs were injected at the wound base and peri-wound area. On days 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28 data for epithelialization, granulation, wound contraction, pain, and infections were collected and analyzed using SPSS. Results: Granulation and epithelialization increased from day 0 to 28 in both groups with statistical differences observed on days 0, 14, and 21 (p values = 0.033, 0.002, and 0.002, respectively, for granulation and no significant difference noted for epithelialization). Contraction was observed in both groups from day 0 to 28 with a significant difference noted on days 3 and 7 (p value = 0.015 and 0.004, respectively). Pain decreased from day 0 to 28, with the PRP group recording lower values. There were no infections among the AFG group, while in the PRP group, infections were reported on day 3. Conclusions: PRP provides a viable option over fat graft in the management of chronic wounds.

Keywords

• platelet-rich plasma
• autologous fat grafting
• chronic wound healing
• granulation