The Effect of Using Perioperative Platelet-Rich Plasma on Wound Healing Rate and Prevention of Salivary Fistula Formation in Patients Undergoing Superficial Parotidectomy

Objectives: This study aims to examine the effects of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP), which increases new connective tissue synthesis and revascularization, on healing in parotid surgery wound, prevention of salivary fistula formation, drain removal time, and hospitalization in the postoperative period. Materials: and Methods: Fifty-four patients who had an operation on superficial parotidectomy were randomized, and then two groups were created. PRP was gained by centrifuging the blood taken from the patients at the end of the surgery in the study group. This gained PRP was injected into the surgical site, and then the wound flap was closed by suturing. Patients were evaluated for the parameters such as the development of salivary fistula, duration of drain removal, discharge time, all other complications during the postoperative 4 weeks. Results: : Drain removal time and discharge time of the PRP group cases were statistically shorter than those in the control group. The rate of development of salivary fistula according to the groups was remarkably high in the control group, but it was not statistically significant. Statistically significant correlation was found between the location of the compared tumor, and volume of material removed, and the incidence of all complications. Conclusions: : PRP reduced the duration of drain removal and discharge time for those who had an operation on superficial parotidectomy. Thus, the decreased discharge time provides both reduced health costs and the risk of developing nosocomial infections. Although it was not statistically significant, a significant difference was observed in the rates of salivary fistula development.