The Adjunct Use of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Split-Thickness Skin Grafts: A Systematic Review.

Objective To summarize the available literature on platelet-rich plasma (PRP) as an adjunct to split-thickness skin graft (STSG) in an organized and easy-to-read format. These data may encourage surgeons to integrate PRP into their skin graft protocol. Data sources The authors conducted a systematic search using the PubMed, Cochrane, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases for articles published from their respective inceptions to October 1, 2019, to identify relevant studies. Study selection A total of 629 articles were reviewed, and 5 were identified for inclusion in this study. The population of all studies was patients receiving an STSG to close a skin defect. Data extraction Articles were screened for the following outcome measures: graft take rates, edema or hematoma formation, instant adhesion of graft, healing time, length of hospital stay, scar hypertrophy, and frequency of dressing changes. Data synthesis The data were organized into two tables describing the studies and the selected outcome measures. Conclusions The data suggest that PRP in STSG reduces healing time, length of hospital stay, and scarring and that it eliminates the need for sutures/staples. Further, these benefits may correlate with a decrease in overall expenditure. This systematic review suggests that further research on PRP and skin grafts is warranted.