Application of Platelet-Rich Gel in Repairing Scalp Defects Combined with Skull Exposure: A Case Series Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Clinical treatment of exposed skull injuries becomes extremely challenging. The current treatment methods for exposed skull injuries are mainly surgical treatments. However, these treatments are not suitable for elderly patients who cannot tolerate anaesthesia. This research aimed to assess the effectiveness of platelet-rich gel (PRG) as a non-surgical option for repairing exposed skull injuries. In this study, twelve patients who presented to our hospital with scalp defects between September 2018 and March 2022 were included. Patients were evaluated before and three days after treatment using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score, inflammatory markers, and topical skin temperature. Additionally, the length of the platelet-rich gel, number of dressing changes, wound-healing time, local scarring, and hair growth were recorded. The average wound area was 17.08 SD5.49 cm2. The platelet-rich gel exhibited a length of 3.09 SD0.09 cm and showed a significant increase in platelet concentration by a factor of 2.43 SD0.07. all 12 patients achieved complete healing, requiring average number of 8.3 SD2.0 dressing changes and resulting in an average wound healing time of 25.0 SD5.8 days. There were no statistically significant differences in the Visual Analog Scale scores, inflammatory markers, or topical skin temperatures before and after treatment. Follow-up assessments conducted 4–10 months after treatment revealed minimal local scars and sparse hair growth. The one-step preparation of platelet-rich gel in reconstructing scalp defects is a simple, safe, and effective non-surgical method. Its advantages include speedy preparation, painless treatment, and small local scars.