Abstract: Aim: To compare the effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) versus standard wound care (SWC) in promoting postoperative healing in orthopaedic surgeries, focusing on wound healing outcomes, pain levels, patient satisfaction, and complication rates.

Materials and Methods: This prospective comparative study included 100 patients undergoing orthopaedic surgeries. Participants were randomly divided into the PRP group (n=50) and the SWC group (n=50). PRP was prepared using a double-spin centrifugation technique and applied intraoperatively and during postoperative dressing changes on days 1, 3, and 7. Wound healing was assessed using the Southampton Wound Assessment Scale (SWAS) on days 7, 14, and 28. Pain levels (VAS), patient satisfaction scores, and postoperative complications were also evaluated. Data were analyzed using t-tests and chi-square tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results: The PRP group showed significantly better wound healing outcomes, with lower SWAS scores on day 28 (0.8 ± 0.4 vs. 1.8 ± 0.7; p < 0.001). Pain levels were consistently lower in the PRP group, with a mean VAS score of 1.1 ± 0.5 compared to 2.7 ± 0.9 in the SWC group (p < 0.001). Patient satisfaction was significantly higher in the PRP group (8.9 ± 1.2 vs. 7.1 ± 1.5; p < 0.001). Complications, including wound infections (4% vs. 16%; p = 0.04) and delayed healing (6% vs. 18%; p = 0.04), were less frequent in the PRP group. Multivariable regression analysis confirmed PRP as an independent predictor of improved wound healing outcomes (β = -0.65, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: PRP significantly improves postoperative wound healing, reduces pain, increases patient satisfaction, and lowers complication rates compared to standard wound care. These findings support the use of PRP as a valuable adjunct in orthopaedic postoperative management.