A Study to Assess the Effect of Platelet Rich Plasma on Caesarean Section Scar

Abstract

A caesarean delivery (CS) is one of the most commonly performed surgical interventions across the globe. Although it serves as a critical life-saving procedure, it comes with a range of postoperative challenges, such as inadequate scar recovery, the development of uterine niches, and enduring gynaecological concerns. The objective of this research was to evaluate the impact of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on the processes of wound healing, the healing of wound , and the recovery following surgery in women who are undergoing elective caesarean sections. PRP, sourced from the individual's own blood, is rich in growth factors including platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and transforming growth factor (TGF). These components are recognised for their roles in facilitating tissue regeneration, collagen synthesis, and the formation of new blood vessels. A meticulously designed, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study was carried out involving 150 women who experienced elective caesarean sections at Ramaiah Medical College and Hospital. Individuals were allocated at random to the PRP cohort (cases) or the control cohort. The research evaluated results including scar density, the advancement of wound healing (quantified by the REEDA score), blood flow, alleviation of pain (assessed via VAS score), and complications following surgery (such as infection, haematoma, seroma, and wound dehiscence). The research revealed that PRP notably diminished pain levels at every measured interval (P < 0.001), with individuals in the PRP cohort undergoing swifter recuperation and an earlier return to typical activities in contrast to the control cohort. Nevertheless, PRP failed to demonstrate a notable enhancement in scar thickness, wound recovery, or a decrease in postoperative issues like infection and haematoma. Although PRP demonstrated efficacy in alleviating postoperative discomfort and hastening the recovery process, it did not notably influence scar development or avert typical postoperative issues. Additional research involving more extensive sample populations and extended observation durations is essential to gain a deeper insight into the prolonged impacts of PRP on recovery following caesarean sections and its feasibility for regular clinical application.