Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and skin healing experience of the plastic and reconstructive surgery department at CHU Tanger-Tétouan-Al Hoceima

Platelet-rich plasma is an autologous product that has shown utility in various specialties, such as plastic and reconstructive surgery, orthopedics, and orthodontics. However, studies on its clinical efficacy remain inconclusive. One of the main reasons for this is the use of different preparation protocols, resulting in varying responses that cannot be compared.

We present a prospective comparative study involving 10 patients with facial skin scars. Half of the patients underwent surgical scar revision, while the other half received, in addition to surgery, an injection of platelet-rich plasma. This study was conducted within the plastic and reconstructive surgery department of CHU Tanger over a 4-year period from May 2020 to September 2024. Our series included all consenting patients with facial scars that were painful, reddish, inflammatory, hard, hyperpigmented, depressed, tethered, or presenting as chronic ulcers.

We excluded unstable scars, keloids, infected or suspicious scars, and those of tumoral origin. We analyzed scar characteristics, including dimensions, sensitivity, shape, location, and the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS). After PRP injection, the VSS score improved to 2.8, with 90% of scars showing no inflammation, 80% achieving normal skin coloration, and all scars becoming supple. The average length, width, and thickness were reduced to 55mm, 3.25mm, and 0.75mm, respectively.

In conclusion, PRP injection is a novel and promising modality that we recommend for treating facial scars and chronic wounds, with no risk of adverse side effects.