Original Articles
A Study of Platelet-Derived Growth Factor in Wound Healing of Diabetic Foot Ulcers | |
Dr. Sudhir Adepu, Dr. Geetha B | |
Background: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a common and serious complication of diabetes, often leading to infection, hospitalization, and amputation. Impaired wound healing in DFUs is attributed to chronic inflammation, poor angiogenesis, and reduced growth factor activity. Platelet-derived growth Factor (PDGF) plays a vital role in wound repair by promoting cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and tissue regeneration. Studying PDGF levels in DFU patients may provide valuable insights into healing potential and guide therapeutic strategies to enhance recovery and prevent complications. Methods: This cross-sectional study was done in the Department of General Surgery, Prathima Institute of Medical Sciences, Naganoor, Karimnagar. Patients with diabetes, Wagner's stage I, II, and III target ulcers more than 4 weeks duration. Ulcers were defined as breaks in the continuity of the skin epithelium. Lower extremity neuropathic ulcers were randomized. If the patient had one ulcer, it was randomized to either the treatment group or the control group. If the patient had two ulcers, one was randomized to the treatment group and the other to the control group before randomization, the target was debrided. Results:The study involved 80 patients randomized into two groups (PDGF and saline dressing, n=40 each). Baseline characteristics including age, sex, ulcer size, and diabetes duration were comparable (p > 0.05). PDGF group showed superior healing outcomes: 80% complete healing vs. 45%, shorter healing time (42.5 vs. 58.6 days), greater ulcer size reduction (78.4% vs. 52.6%), and fewer infections (15% vs. 40%)—all statistically significant (p < 0.05). Neuropathic ulcers were the most common. PDGF was associated with fewer complications and did not increase adverse events compared to saline dressing. Conclusion: PDGF significantly improves wound healing parameters in DFUs, reduces infection risk, and shows a favorable safety profile. It presents a promising adjunctive therapy to standard wound care protocols in diabetic patients. |
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