Effects of PRP application on wound healing in diabetic foot Wagner stage I and stage II ulcers

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are one of the most serious complications of diabetes and represent a significant health problem that can progress to amputation if left untreated. The effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on wound healing in Wagner grade I and grade II diabetic foot ulcers were investigated in this study. The research was conducted at the Orthopedics and Traumatology outpatient clinic of Van Yüzüncü Yıl University, involving a total of 44 patients. The patients were divided into two groups: those who received PRP treatment (n=23) and those who did not (n=21). In the study group, PRP was applied to the wound edges and wound bed, while the control group received conventional dressing methods. The patients were followed for 28 days, and wound healing was evaluated in detail. According to the study results, the group treated with PRP showed a significant reduction in wound size and a marked increase in granulation and epithelialization rates. The likelihood of granulation formation in the PRP-treated group was approximately 35.75 times higher than in the non-PRP group. Similarly, the likelihood of epithelialization in the PRP-treated group was found to be 12.86 times higher. Additionally, a reduction in wound exudate and a decrease in CRP levels were observed in the PRP-treated group. However, no significant changes were noted in ESR and WBC values. PRP was determined to be a safe treatment method with no observed side effects. The study demonstrated that PRP accelerates wound healing. The reduction in wound size and exudate in the PRP-treated group suggests that PRP may have both local and systemic effects. In conclusion, PRP was found to accelerate wound healing and increase granulation and epithelialization in Wagner grade I and grade II diabetic foot ulcers. PRP can be considered an effective method in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers; however, further studies with larger patient groups and longer follow-up periods are needed. Additionally, research on the use of PRP at different concentrations and in combination with other treatment methods is required. This study indicates that PRP is a safe and effective option for the treatment of Wagner grade I and grade II diabetic foot ulcers.