Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) are autologous (from the patient’s own blood) biologic therapies used to support and accelerate tissue repair. Both concentrate platelets, growth factors, and cytokines that promote cellular recruitment, angiogenesis, and collagen formation — all essential steps in wound healing. These treatments are increasingly used alongside standard wound care to improve outcomes for acute and chronic wounds, surgical sites, and difficult-to-heal ulcers.
What are PRP and PRF?
– PRP (Platelet‑Rich Plasma): Blood is drawn, centrifuged to separate components, and a liquid or semi-solid concentrate is obtained that is rich in platelets and growth factors. PRP can be injected or applied topically with a carrier (gel or membrane).
– PRF (Platelet‑Rich Fibrin): A second‑generation product created with a gentler centrifugation protocol that forms a natural fibrin matrix. PRF releases growth factors more slowly over days to weeks and can be used as a membrane, plug, or mixed with graft material.
How they help wounds
– Deliver high concentrations of growth factors (PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, EGF) to the wound bed.
– Stimulate migration and proliferation of fibroblasts and endothelial cells.
– Promote new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis), improving oxygen and nutrient delivery.
– Enhance collagen deposition and tissue remodeling.
– PRF’s fibrin matrix also provides a structural scaffold that stabilizes the wound environment and prolongs growth factor release.
Common indications
– Chronic non-healing ulcers (venous, diabetic, pressure)
– Traumatic wounds and lacerations
– Surgical and donor sites (to reduce dehiscence and speed recovery)
– Burn care adjuncts
– Complex soft-tissue defects when used with grafts or skin substitutes
Procedure overview
– Consultation and wound assessment to determine suitability.
– A small blood draw from the patient.
– Centrifugation to produce PRP or PRF (time varies by protocol).
– Application or injection of the concentrate into and around the wound, or placement of a PRF membrane over the defect.
– Wounds are then dressed per standard protocols; follow-up visits monitor progress.
Benefits
– Uses the patient’s own blood — minimal risk of allergic reaction or disease transmission.
– May shorten healing time and reduce infection risk by improving local tissue health.
– Can reduce need for repeat surgeries or prolonged advanced wound therapies.
– Versatile — used alone or with grafts, scaffolds, or negative pressure wound therapy.
Safety and considerations
– Generally well tolerated; minor side effects may include transient pain at injection site, mild swelling, or bruising.
– Not appropriate for some patients (active systemic infection, certain blood disorders, anticoagulation concerns) — medical screening is required.
– Quality of PRP/PRF depends on collection and processing protocols; outcomes vary by patient factors (age, comorbidities, nutritional status).
Evidence and expectations
– Clinical studies and meta-analyses show promising results for improved healing rates and faster closure in selected wound types, particularly chronic ulcers. However, protocols and evidence quality vary — PRP/PRF are most effective when integrated into a comprehensive wound-care plan. Your clinician will discuss realistic outcomes based on wound type and overall health.
Why choose MARA HEALING
– Experienced wound assessment and personalized treatment plans.
– On-site processing for consistent PRP/PRF preparation.
– Multidisciplinary approach combining PRP/PRF with compression, debridement, grafting, or infection control when needed.
Call to action
If you’re struggling with a slow-healing wound, schedule a consultation to learn whether PRP or PRF could help your healing process. Contact us to book an evaluation.