A prospective study on efficacy of Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) in the management of trophic ulcers of leprosy

Abstract

Introduction: Trophic ulcers are the major cause of disability in leprosy patients. The disease imposes a social stigma and economic burden in these patients which interferes with regular treatment resulting in defaulters. Chronicity of the ulcer and complications like osteomyelitis and malignancy became an ever challenging task for the treating physician. Newer treatment modalities are on search for decreasing the treatment duration and preventing the recurrence of trophic ulcers. Platelet rich fibrin (PRF) is a platelet concentrate which provides rapid wound healing through the release of various growth factors. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of topical platelet rich fibrin gel in non-healing trophic ulcers of leprosy. Material and Methods: Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 10 patients having leprosy trophic ulcers of more than six weeks duration were enrolled in the study. Following surgical debridement, autologous platelet rich fibrin gel was placed over the wound bed and covered with secondary dressing. Procedure is repeated weekly up to four weeks. Results: At the end of four weeks, complete healing of ulcers was seen in five patients (50%).Other five patients achieved 80-90% reduction in volume of ulcer. The percentage of reduction in mean volume of ulcer was 96.31%. Conclusion: Early diagnosis of the disease and proper management of neuritis will prevent the complications like trophic ulcer. Platelet rich fibrin has become an inexpensive, easily available treatment option with less side effects in the management of trophic ulcers.