Leukocyte‑ and Platelet‑Rich Fibrin (L‑PRF): A Powerful Adjunct for Chronic Wound Healing
An in-depth review (Periodontology 2000, 2024) highlights the therapeutic benefits of leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) membranes for chronic, non-healing wounds—ranging from diabetic foot and venous leg ulcers to pressure injuries and complex surgical wounds.
Key Highlights:
- What Is L‑PRF? It’s an autologous blood product formed by centrifuging a patient’s blood to create a fibrin matrix packed with platelets and leukocytes—delivering growth factors, antimicrobial activity, and a structural scaffold.
- Broad Clinical Impact: Weekly L-PRF applications accelerated healing in diabetic foot ulcers, long-standing venous ulcers, pressure injuries, leprosy wounds, and complex tissue defects.
- Healing Efficacy: L-PRF shortened time to wound closure, improved patient-reported outcomes—such as reduced pain—and decreased reliance on analgesics.
- Case Successes: Anecdotal cases included complete healing of a chronic diabetic foot ulcer after eight weekly applications, resolution of venous ulcers in three months, and closure of deep wounds with tendon or bone exposure within 7–10 weeks.
- Mechanisms of Action: L-PRF offers a protective barrier, sustained release of regenerative growth factors, antimicrobial effects, and a three-dimensional matrix that enhances cellular migration and tissue neovascularization.
- Best-Use Recommendations: The review outlines suggested indications, preparation methods, and application protocols for treating wounds that have stalled under standard therapy.
This review reinforces L‑PRF’s role as a valuable, low-risk, patient-derived tool in regenerative wound care. It offers practical guidance for integrating L‑PRF into clinics striving to close stubborn chronic wounds.
Based on: “Leukocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L‑PRF) in extra‑oral wound care: a review of clinical evidence,” Periodontology 2000, 2024.
Keywords: leukocyte‑platelet‑rich fibrin, chronic wounds, diabetic foot ulcer, venous leg ulcer, pressure ulcer