Development of a new plasma rich in growth factors membrane with improved optical properties.

PURPOSE

The aim of the present work was to develop a fibrin membrane using plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) technology with improved optical properties to be used for the treatment of ocular surface diseases.

BASIC PROCEDURES

Blood was drawn from three healthy donors, and the volume of PRGF obtained from each donor was divided into two main groups: i) PRGF or ii) platelet-poor plasma (PPP). Each membrane was then used pure or diluted to 90 %, 80 %, 70 %, 60 % and 50 %. The transparency of each of the different membranes was evaluated. The degradation and morphological characterization of each membrane was also performed. Finally, a stability study of the different fibrin membranes was performed.

MAIN FINDINGS

The transmittance test showed that the fibrin membrane with the best optical characteristics was obtained after removal of platelets and dilution of fibrin to 50 % (50 % PPP). No significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed between the different membranes in the fibrin degradation test. The stability test showed that the membrane at 50 % PPP retains its optical and physical characteristics after storage at - 20 °C for 1 month compared to storage at 4 °C.

PRINCIPAL CONCLUSIONS

The present study describes the development and characterization of a new fibrin membrane with improved optical characteristics while maintaining mechanical and biological characteristics. The physical and mechanical properties of the newly developed membrane are preserved after storage for at least 1 month at - 20 °C.