Efficacy of Autologous Platelet-rich Plasma Glue in Weight Loss Sequelae Surgery and Breast Reduction: A Prospective Study.

BACKGROUND

Seroma and hematoma formations are the most common complications after plastic surgery. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of autologous platelet-rich plasma (A-PRP) glue to reduce postoperative wound complications and improve surgical outcomes.

METHODS

Fifty-four patients were included in this study. They underwent breast reduction surgery, abdominoplasty, or limb lifting with A-PRP glue application on the entire surface of the subcutaneous tissue at the time of suture. Retrospective data were used for the control group. The primary endpoint was the incidence of postoperative seroma or hematoma. The secondary endpoint was the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale score.

RESULTS

Demographics and clinical characteristics were not statistically different between the A-PRP glue group and the control group regarding age, sex ratio, and body mass index. After abdominoplasty, 37.5% of patients (3/8) in the control group experienced seroma and hematoma complications versus 12.5% of patients (2/16) in the A-PRP glue group ( = 0.55 and = 0.25, respectively). After limb lifting, 50% of patients experienced postoperative complications in the control group versus no patient in the A-PRP glue group ( = 0.03*; * indicates that the value is significant). After breast reduction, no patient experienced complication in the A-PRP glue group versus 25% of patients in the control group who experienced hematoma ( = 0.04*). The scar quality assessed 12 months after surgery showed no statistical differences between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

A-PRP glue seems effective to prevent seroma formation after limb lifting and hematoma formation after breast reduction. Wound-healing quality did not seem to be improved.