Composition and characteristics of an autologous thrombocyte gel

BACKGROUND: The purpose of the current study was to characterize and compare an autologous thrombocyte gel containing several blood components with a commercially available glue. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-five volunteers had blood drawn, and lab values, characteristics of the platelet-enriched plasma (PRP), thrombocyte aggregation, electron microscopic examinations, and the breaking strength were determined and compared to a commercial glue. RESULTS: Overall 65% of the total thrombocytes could be isolated from the volunteers and an enrichment of 300% with an autotransfusion device could be achieved. Thrombocyte aggregation as a marker for thrombocyte function decreased from 92% in patients to 71% in the PRP. The autologous glue demonstrated a significant reduced breaking strength (0,76 N/cm(3)) compared to the commercial glue (7.42 N/cm(2)), P < 0.05. The decrease in breaking strength could be correlated with the thrombocyte concentration, P < 0.05. CONCLUSIONS: In the present study we have shown that an autologous platelet-enriched plasma cannot be used as a glue in the common sense to seal stitches or prosthesis. Platelet gels, however, have a high concentration of platelets that release the bioactive proteins and growth factors are necessary to initiate and accelerate tissue repair and enhance dermal and epidermal regeneration. To evaluate the possible clinical implication prospective, randomized studies should be performed to examine the effect of autologous plasma platelet-enriched plasma on wound healing.