title: Treatment of chronic venous leg ulcers by platelet gel.
abstract: Chronic venous leg ulcers (CVLU) are chronic wounds, associated with long-standing venous hypertension, which have a poor prognosis for healing. In the process of wound healing the first step is represented by platelet aggregation and subsequent release of growth factors and other mediators, which play a key role in the repair response. Platelet gel (PG), a hemocomponent obtained by mixing platelets, thrombin, and calcium, is able, when applied topically, to release platelet mediators that likely favor CVLU healing. However, unstandardized protocols have been described in studies utilizing PG for the regeneration of a number of tissues, including CVLU; the relative clinical outcomes were hence highly variable. In our experience the topical use of PG, together with the strict adherence to the principles of good wound care, quickly promoted increased granulation tissue, followed by a complete CVLU epithelization. Although further studies and trials are needed to establish the major outcome affecting rules for optimal indications, preparation, and use of PG for CVLU treatment, PG can be undoubtedly considered a useful tool, able to improve the management of CVLU.
authors: Section of Dermatology, Department of Surgical Sciences, Parma University, Parma, Italy.
authors: Elena
authors: E
authors: Ficarelli
authors: Gino
authors: G
authors: Bernuzzi
authors: Elena
authors: E
authors: Tognetti
authors: Ovidio
authors: O
authors: Bussolati
authors: Alfredo
authors: A
authors: Zucchi
authors: Daniela
authors: D
authors: Adorni
authors: Giuseppe
authors: G
authors: De Panfilis
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D001792:Blood Platelets; D002908:Chronic Disease; D005260:Female; D005782:Gels; D006801:Humans; D014647:Varicose Ulcer / Q000628:therapy*; D014945:Wound Healing
chemical_list: D005782:Gels