A comparative study of the efficacy of autologous platelet-rich fibrin matrix versus platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of non-healing leg ulcers

Objectives: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and Platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) are different generations of platelet concentrates providing growth factors and cytokines aiding tissue repair. However, there is not enough research comparing the efficacy of PRFM and PRP. This study aims to assess and compare the efficacy of platelet rich fibrin matrix (PRFM) with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for the treatment of patients with non-healing leg ulcers of various etiologies. Material and Methods: A comparative, prospective, interventional, randomised, open labelled study was done recruiting a total of 64 consecutive cases of non-healing leg ulcers reporting to the department. One group received PRFM and the other received PRP dressings at 01 weekly interval for 04 sittings. Size and volume of the ulcers were calculated at baseline and weekly following each sitting. Results: In the PRP group the volume of ulcer was reduced by 60.66% after four applications, compared to 55.56% reduction in PRFM group. In the PRP group the area of ulcer was reduced by 51.85% after four applications, compared to 46.83% reduction in the PRFM group. There was a constant reduction in size after each application, in both the groups, but the difference finally had a P value >0.05 which was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Both Autologous Platelet Rich Fibrin Matrix and Platelet Rich Plasma are effective modalities for treatment of leg ulcers with excellent safety profile. While PRP demonstrated superior efficacy, PRFM was also comparable, showing its potential as a viable alternative.