The effects of Platelet-rich Plasma on healing of partial thickness burns in a porcine model

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) derived from autologous peripheral blood is rich in platelets that release growth factors and cytokines. We determined the effects of topically applied autologous PRP in a partial thickness porcine burn model. Partial thickness burns were created on the backs and flanks of six domestic pigs (24 burns each) using an aluminium bar preheated to 80° C for 20 seconds. After removing the necrotic epidermis, the burns were randomly treated with a topical antibiotic ointment or a single (day 2), double (days 2 and 7), or triple (days 2, 7, and 14) topical application of PRP that was prepared freshly before application. Periodic imaging and full thickness biopsies were conducted to monitor healing over 28 days. The percentage wound reepithelialization at days 11, 14, 18 and 21 did not differ significantly among the groups. By day 28 all wounds were completely (>95%) reepithelialized, and there were no differences among the groups. Time to complete healing (presented as mean, [SD]) did not differ among the groups (antibiotics, 17.1 [3.5]; single PRP, 17.6 [4.0]; double PRP, 18.4 [3.9]; and triple PRP, 17.7 [3.3] days; ANOVA P=0.43). Scar depth (presented as mean, [SD]) in mm at day 28 by treatment group was: antibiotic 5.0 [1.0], single PRP 5.5 [1.1], double PRP 5.4 [1.1], and triple PRP 5.5 [0.6], ANOVA P=0.026. We conclude that PRP results in similar rates of reepithelialization and scar depth to standard topical antibiotics in a partial thickness porcine burn model.