Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma on Episiotomy Wound Healing in Postpartum Women at the Capiatá District Hospital, 2024
Keywords:
Platelet-Rich Plasma, Episiotomy, Wound Healing, Growth Factors, Postpartum PeriodAbstract
Introduction: Episiotomy is a common obstetric procedure and may be associated with complications such as persistent pain, inflammation, infection, and impaired wound healing. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous concentrate containing growth factors that modulate inflammation, stimulate angiogenesis, and accelerate tissue repair, which suggests potential benefits when applied to perineal wounds.
Objective: To compare the effect of PRP on episiotomy wound healing versus natural healing in postpartum women treated at the Hospital Distrital de Capiatá in 2024.
Materials and methods: A descriptive, analytical, and comparative study was conducted with a non-probabilistic sample of 40 postpartum women, divided into two groups: PRP intervention (n = 20) and natural healing (n = 20). PRP was obtained through differential centrifugation and applied along the suture line within the first six hours after delivery. Wound healing was assessed using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) and pain using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at 24 hours, 7 days, and 14 days postpartum. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed.
Results: The PRP group demonstrated a faster and more significant reduction in VSS scores starting on day 7, with substantial improvement by day 14 (2.6 ± 0.9 vs. 5.1 ± 1.1). Pain decreased more rapidly in the intervention group. No adverse reactions related to PRP were observed, whereas the control group presented a slightly higher number of minor complications.
Discussion: PRP promoted faster healing, improved scar quality, and reduced perineal pain compared with natural healing. Its use represents an effective and safe regenerative alternative for managing episiotomy wounds during the immediate postpartum period.
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