Comparison between Topical Platelet Rich Plasma and Normal Saline Dressing, in Conjunction with Total Contact Casting in Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcer–A Randomized Control Trial

Author(s):

Subha Das, Sanyal Kumar, Sanjay Kumar Pandey*, Anjani Kumar, Neeraj Kumar and Ranjeet Kumar

Introduction: Wound care plays an important role in the management of diabetic foot ulcer, which includes cleaning and stimulate a moist wound healing environment. Total-contact cast is widely use as the most effective external technique for off-loading plantar ulcers. This study compares the effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and normal saline dressing in conjunction with Total-Contact Cast (TCC).

Methods: 36 patients of diabetic foot ulcer was taken and divided in to 2 groups using computer generated randomization into PRP group and NS group with 18 patients in each group. PRP group was given autologous PRP and NS group was given wet dressing with NS; following which TCC was applied in each case for off-loading. Follow up was done every 15 days up to 90 days. In each follow-up measurement and TCC application was done, time to heal and PUSH (Pressure Ulcer Scale for Healing) score has been used to measure condition of the wound.

Results: In PRP group the mean wound size 8.28 ± 1.18 and mean PUSH tool total 13.44 ± 0.98 at base line which was gradually decreased and finally at day 90 it was reduced to 0.61 ± 1.20 and 1.89 ± 3.68 respectively. In NS group the mean wound size 8.45 ± 1.13 and mean PUSH tool total 13.50 ± 0.92 at baseline which was gradually decreased and finally at day 90 it was reduced to 1.58 ± 1.55 and 4.61 ± 4.37 respectively. Significant difference was found in both the groups at final evaluation. Compared to the NS group, the PRP group exhibits greater improvement.

Conclusion: Both autologous PRP and NS are effective in treating DFU, when used along with TCC. But PRP therapy is better in reducing healing time and hospital visits.