Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma on Perianal Wound Healing after Anal Fistula Operations: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Background: Boosting of healing for anal wounds following operations for anal fistulae may contribute to a more rapid recovery and resumption of work activities. Objectives: To evaluate the impact of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection on the postoperative outcome of perianal wound after anal fistula surgeries in terms of healing time, reduction in wound size, pain score, and therefore quality of patients’ life. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective study conducted on subjects who were randomly assigned to either PRP injections in addition to standard surgical procedures (group A), or the standard surgery only (group B). The primary outcome measured the number of weeks required for complete healing of the anal wound in both groups, whereas, secondary outcomes included the incidence of complications, pain levels, and quality of life (QoL) assessments. Results: Group A demonstrated complete healing in a notably shorter time frame compared to group B (P=0.003). The average postoperative pain (POP) scores were consistently lower in group A at all measured intervals compared to group B. Group A was associated with a significant improvement in QoL compared to group B (34.75 versus 21.8) (P<0.001). Both groups exhibited identical rates of complications. Conclusion: Platelet-rich plasma is considered a safe treatment option that is associated with reduced healing time and diminished POP. While it does not enhance the overall healing rate, it is linked to a notable improvement in short-term quality of life.