EFFICACY OF PLATELET-RICH FIBRIN MATRIX (PRFM) IN THE TREATMENT OF CHRONIC NON-HEALING ULCERS: A PROSPECTIVE CLINICAL STUDY

Chronic non-healing ulcers present a significant clinical challenge due to their resistance to conventional treatments. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrix (PRFM) in treating chronic non-healing ulcers of various etiologies. A prospective, non-randomized interventional trial was conducted at G.K. General Hospital, Bhuj, from January 2019 to January 2020. A total of 25 patients, aged 18 to 70 years, with 28 non-healing ulcers persisting for more than six weeks, were enrolled. Patients were treated with PRFM at weekly intervals, with a maximum of six sessions. The PRFM was prepared from the patients' venous blood through centrifugation, and the resultant matrix was applied to the wound site. Wound healing was assessed by measuring changes in ulcer area and volume. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in both the area and volume of ulcers. The mean baseline area and volume of the ulcers were 9.32 cm² and 4.01 cm³, respectively. By the end of the fifth treatment session, the mean area decreased to 0.32 cm², and the mean volume reduced to 0.001 cm³. Ulcers caused by Hansen's disease showed a faster healing response compared to other etiologies. PRFM treatment was completed within 40 minutes in all cases, highlighting its efficiency and practicality. These findings suggest that PRFM is an effective, safe, and cost-effective treatment for chronic non-healing ulcers. However, the study's small sample size indicates the need for further research with larger populations to validate these results and assess long-term efficacy and safety. Future studies should also aim to standardize PRFM treatment protocols for broader clinical application.