Diabetic ulcers are open sores or wounds that occur in individuals living with diabetes, primarily due to the breakdown of skin tissues. They most commonly develop on the feet, often at pressure points, such as the ball of the foot or the bottom of the big toe.

Several factors contribute to the development of diabetic ulcers, including poor blood circulation, neuropathy (nerve damage), and high blood sugar levels that hinder the body’s natural healing process.

Some signs and symptoms that you might have diabetic ulcers are:

• Pain and discomfort in the affected area
• Swelling and redness 
• Unpleasant odour stemming from the ulcer
• Discharge or pus
• Black tissue (eschar) forming around the ulcer

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy involves using the patient’s own blood to promote healing of the affected area. The process begins with a blood draw, which is then placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from other blood components. These platelets, rich in growth factors and proteins, are then injected or applied to the ulcer site to stimulate tissue regeneration and accelerate healing.

PRP therapy takes advantage of the body’s natural healing mechanisms, enhancing the regenerative process by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and stimulating the formation of new tissue. Furthermore, it is minimally invasive, making it an attractive option for patients with diabetic ulcers.

The effectiveness of PRP therapy for diabetic ulcers has been demonstrated in several studies. One notable example is a study published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association. In this study, 24 patients with chronic diabetic foot ulcers were treated with PRP therapy. The results showed that 18 out of the 24 patients experienced significant healing of their ulcers, with a reduction in ulcer size and depth, and in some cases, complete closure of the ulcer.

Another study published in the International Wound Journal highlighted the efficacy of PRP in reducing healing time and improving the quality of life for patients with diabetic ulcers. The study found that patients receiving PRP therapy healed faster than those receiving standard wound care treatments.

The longevity of PRP therapy results can vary depending on the severity of the ulcer and the patient’s overall health. In many cases, patients experience significant improvement within a few weeks of treatment. However, the full benefits of PRP therapy may not be realized for several months as the body continues to heal and regenerate tissues.

Patients with diabetic ulcers may require multiple PRP treatments to achieve optimal results. The frequency and number of treatments will depend on the individual case and should be determined by a healthcare professional.

One of the significant advantages of PRP therapy is its potential to delay or even eliminate the need for surgical intervention. By promoting natural healing and reducing inflammation, PRP therapy can help close ulcers that might otherwise require surgical removal. This is particularly beneficial for patients who may not be ideal candidates for surgery due to other health conditions or risks relating to anesthesia.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that PRP therapy reduced the need for surgical debridement and amputation in patients with diabetic foot ulcers. The study concluded that PRP therapy is a viable alternative to surgery, especially for patients with chronic, non-healing ulcers.

PRP therapy is suitable for a wide range of patients with diabetic ulcers, particularly those who:

• Have chronic, non-healing ulcers despite standard wound care treatments.
• Are seeking a minimally invasive treatment option.
• Are not candidates for surgery due to other medical conditions or risks.
• Are looking to reduce healing time and improve overall quality of life.

However, PRP therapy may not be suitable for everyone. Patients with certain blood disorders, active infections, or those on anticoagulant medications may not be ideal candidates. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the suitability of PRP therapy based on individual health conditions and needs.

Though PRP therapy for diabetic ulcers is considered a generally safe procedure because it uses the patient’s own blood, there can still be side effects associated with the treatment such as swelling and bruising at the injection site.

PRP therapy for diabetic ulcers presents an optimistic treatment opportunity for patients with diabetic ulcers, offering a minimally invasive option that leverages the body’s natural healing processes.

By promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation, PRP therapy can significantly improve healing outcomes, potentially delaying or eliminating the need for surgical intervention.

While not suitable for everyone, PRP therapy offers a valuable alternative for many patients with chronic, non-healing diabetic ulcers. Consulting with a qualified healthcare professional is essential to determine the best treatment approach based on individual health conditions and needs.

Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association. “The Effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy in Healing Diabetic Foot Ulcers.” https://www.japmaonline.org

Journal of Clinical Medicine. “Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” https://www.mdpi.com/journal/jcm 

American Diabetes Association. “Diabetic Ulcers: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options.” https://www.diabetes.org

Mayo Clinic. “PRP Therapy: What You Need to Know.” https://www.mayoclinic.org

Healthline. “Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy for Chronic Wounds.” https://www.healthline.com