Autologous platelet-derived growth factors (platelet-rich plasma) as an adjunct to mucosal advancement flap in high cryptoglandular perianal fistulae: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to explore autologous platelet-rich plasma as an adjunct to the staged mucosal advancement flap in the treatment of perianal fistulae.


METHODS
Between February 2006 and May 2007, 10 patients with fistula tracts transversing from the middle-third or upper part of the anal sphincter were treated for at least 3 months with noncutting setons prior to definitive closure by autologous platelet-rich plasma as an adjunct to a mucosal advancement flap. Five patients smoked tobacco.


RESULTS
The study group consisted of six women and four men with a median age of 44 (range 30-75) years and a median follow up of 26 (range 17-32) months. One (10%) patient had a recurrent fistula. No new continence disorders developed after definitive treatment in both groups.


CONCLUSIONS
Platelet-rich plasma as an adjunct to a staged mucosal advancement flap for the treatment of perianal cryptoglandular fistulae is a promising treatment modality and seems to establish a high healing rate.
van der Hagen
S J
SJ
Department of Surgery, Refaja Hospital Stadskanaal, University Hospital Maastricht, The Netherlands. sjvanderhagen@refaja.nl
Baeten
C G
CG
Soeters
P B
PB
van Gemert
W G
WG
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D053657:Platelet-Rich Plasma; D012003:Rectal Fistula / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D014945:Wound Healing