Autologous Platelet-Rich Gel for the Treatment of Diabetic Sinus Tract Wounds: A Clinical Study.

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of autologous platelet-rich gel (APG) in the treatment of deep sinus tract wounds from diabetic ulcers.

METHODS

Forty-eight patients with diabetic ulcers were randomly classified into two groups: an APG treatment group (25 patients) and a conventional wound dressing control group (23 patients). The sinus tract closure times, ulcer healing rates, hospitalization times, and hospitalization expenses of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in the basic data and wound conditions between the two groups. The cure (healed wound) rates were 96% and 87% for the APG group and control group, respectively. During the first 4 wk, the sinus tract closure rate for the APG group was significantly higher than that for the control group. However, there was no significant difference in the sinus tract healing between the two groups at the end of the 8th wk. For the APG group and the control group, the average hospital stays were 19.36 ± 7.239 d and 48.13 ± 11.721 d, respectively, and the total hospitalization expenses were 2.48 ± 0.45 ten thousand yuan and 5.63 ± 1.35 ten thousand yuan (P < 0.05), respectively. These differences were statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

When compared with conventional wound dressings, APG can accelerate the healing of deep sinus tract wounds associated with diabetic ulcers.