The Effect of Using Perioperative Platelet-Rich Plasma on Wound Healing
Rate and Prevention of Salivary Fistula Formation in Patients Undergoing
Superficial Parotidectomy
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to examine the effects of
autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP), which increases new connective
tissue synthesis and revascularization, on healing in parotid surgery
wound, prevention of salivary fistula formation, drain removal time, and
hospitalization in the postoperative period. Materials and
Methods: Fifty-four patients who had an operation on superficial
parotidectomy were randomized, and then two groups were created. PRP was
gained by centrifuging the blood taken from the patients at the end of
the surgery in the study group. This gained PRP was injected into the
surgical site, and then the wound flap was closed by suturing. Patients
were evaluated for the parameters such as the development of salivary
fistula, duration of drain removal, discharge time, all other
complications during the postoperative 4 weeks. Results: Drain
removal time and discharge time of the PRP group cases were
statistically shorter than those in the control group. The rate of
development of salivary fistula according to the groups was remarkably
high in the control group, but it was not statistically significant.
Statistically significant correlation was found between the location of
the compared tumor, and volume of material removed, and the incidence of
all complications. Conclusions: PRP reduced the duration of
drain removal and discharge time for those who had an operation on
superficial parotidectomy. Thus, the decreased discharge time provides
both reduced health costs and the risk of developing nosocomial
infections. Although it was not statistically significant, a significant
difference was observed in the rates of salivary fistula development.