Platelet-derived concentrates influence human keratinocyte proliferation in vitro and induce wound healing in a prospective case series of chronic wounds of different entities in vivo

OBJECTIVES: Soft tissues defects can extend into the fat layer or even deeper and can cause significant clinical disadvantages like pain, infections, and loss of function. In particular, chronic wounds are difficult to treat, as split-thickness skin grafts (STSGs) have varying success rates. To improve wound healing in chronic wounds, the authors have studied the application of platelet-mediator concentrate (PMC) in a human keratinocyte culture model in vitro and of autologous platelet concentrates (PRP) in a combination with surgical procedures in vivo as second line therapy in patients with initially failed wound closure. METHODS: For in vitro testing on keratinocytes, a PMC was processed with a commercially available bedside system (ATR(®), Curasan, Germany). In a clinical, nonrandomized study, five in-house patients with chronic wounds were treated using a combination of surgical debridement and autologous PRP. Time of healing as determined by epithelization as well as laser Doppler imaging to visualize blood flow was analyzed. Additionally, changes in ease of surgical wound closure were determined. Finally, the quality of life of patients was assessed using a validated questionnaire (clinicaltrials.gov # NCT03667638). RESULTS: In vitro testing shows a significant effect of PMC on keratinocyte proliferation in cell culture. Clinical studies showed that patients treated with PRP had initiation of wound closure, higher blood flow after PRP injection, and easier wound closure as well as improved quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: The injection of platelet concentrates to treat chronic wound defects presents a favorable addition to treatment where single surgical procedures have failed and may improve current therapy options.