Platelet-rich plasma in burns

Platelet-rich plasma stimulates angiogenesis, promoting vascular in-growth and fibroblast proliferation. In addition, PRP functions as haemostatic by forming a fibrin clot. Also application of PRP enhances wound-healing in both soft and hard tissue. A survey of the literature to assess the current clinical experience and the possible effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on wound-healing in burn cases yields only few reports. The application of PRP is not currently standardized and the effects in wound-healing are poorly understood. The use of PRP as an analog to fibrin sealant is also only seldomly reported. The value of PRP application in burns remains unclear. A definitive assessment as to the application of PRP in burn treatment will require further studies. Theoretically the effects of PRP in burn wounds could be beneficial, however the interaction in tissue repair and regeneration must be better understood. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved