Autologous platelet gel to treat chronic decubital ulcers: a randomized, blind controlled clinical trial in dogs.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy of topical application of the autologous platelet gel (PG) in canine chronic protracted decubital ulcers.

STUDY

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, blind controlled clinical trial.

ANIMALS: Dogs (n = 18) with bilateral chronic wounds caused by protracted decubitus ulcers.

METHODS

For each dog, wound side was randomized to receive either platelet gel (group PG) every 5 days for 5 dressing changes, or paraffin gauzes dressings (group C), as negative control. Wound healing and wound surfaces were compared at admission and then evaluated every 5th day, until day 25. Outcome variables were: open wound area, reduction of open wound surface compared to admission and to each preceding dressing change, time to complete epithelialization.

RESULTS

Significant differences in healing process were observed at day 5 and continued throughout the entire study period (P < .00001). At 25 days, mean percent reduction in wound area was 93.5% in group PG and 13.2% in group C (P < .00001).

CONCLUSIONS

Appropriately prepared autologous PG, an inexpensive, readily available blood derivative, applied topically results in more rapid healing of chronic non-healing decubital ulcers in dogs than those treated by use of paraffin-impregnated gauzes.