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Treatment of chronic venous leg ulcers by platelet gel
Author(s) -
Ficarelli Elena,
Bernuzzi Gino,
Tognetti Elena,
Bussolati Ovidio,
Zucchi Alfredo,
Adorni Daniela,
De Panfilis Giuseppe
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
dermatologic therapy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.595
H-Index - 68
eISSN - 1529-8019
pISSN - 1396-0296
DOI - 10.1111/j.1529-8019.2008.00196.x
Subject(s) - medicine , wound healing , platelet , granulation tissue , chronic wound , wound care , thrombin , surgery , intensive care medicine
Chronic venous leg ulcers (CVLU) are chronic wounds, associated with long‐standing venous hypertension, which have a poor prognosis for healing. In the process of wound healing the first step is represented by platelet aggregation and subsequent release of growth factors and other mediators, which play a key role in the repair response. Platelet gel (PG), a hemocomponent obtained by mixing platelets, thrombin, and calcium, is able, when applied topically, to release platelet mediators that likely favor CVLU healing. However, unstandardized protocols have been described in studies utilizing PG for the regeneration of a number of tissues, including CVLU; the relative clinical outcomes were hence highly variable. In our experience the topical use of PG, together with the strict adherence to the principles of good wound care, quickly promoted increased granulation tissue, followed by a complete CVLU epithelization. Although further studies and trials are needed to establish the major outcome affecting rules for optimal indications, preparation, and use of PG for CVLU treatment, PG can be undoubtedly considered a useful tool, able to improve the management of CVLU.