Autologous platelet gel to treat chronic decubital ulcers: a randomized blind controlled clinical trial in dogs

Introduction The objective of this prospective randomised blind controlled clinical trial was to appraise the effectiveness of topical application of autologous platelet gel (PG) in canine chronic non-healing wounds. Material and Methods Dogs with bilateral chronic wounds caused by protracted decubitus ulcers (n = 18) were considered in the study. For each dog, the wound side was randomised to receive either platelet gel (group G) every 5 days for 5 dressing changes, or paraffin gauze dressings (group C), as a negative control. Wound healing and wound surfaces were compared at admission and then evaluated every 5th day, until the 25th day. The following outcome variables were measured: open wound area, reduction of open wound area compared to admission and to each preceding dressing change and time to complete epithelialisation. Results Significant differences in the healing process were observed at day 5 and throughout the entire study period (P<0.0001). The final mean percentage value of surface reduction was 93.5% in group G and 13.2% in group C (P<0.0001). Discussion and Conclusion Appropriately prepared autologous PG is an inexpensive and easily available blood derivative that can be applied locally to enhance wound healing of decubital ulcers in the dog. Chronic non-healing decubital ulcers treated with PG heal significantly quicker than those treated with paraffin impregnated gauzes.