Is PRP Effective in Reducing the Scar Width of Primary Cleft Lip Repair? A Randomized Controlled Clinical Study

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and analyze the effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection on the scar formed after unilateral complete cleft lip scar repair using a modified Millard technique. HYPOTHESIS: An unavoidable cheiloplasty scar is a result of the wound healing process that not only influences patient self-esteem for life but also affects muscle function. DESIGN: Blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial. PATIENTS: From December 2016 to February 2018, 24 patients with unilateral complete cleft lip undergoing primary cheiloplasties were equally assigned to study and control groups. INTERVENTION: All patients were treated by modified Millard cheiloplasty. In the study group, PRP was injected into the muscle and skin layers immediately after wound closure, while the control group patients were treated with no PRP injection. OUTCOMES MEASURES: Scar width was assessed after 6 months through the muscle using ultrasonography and at the skin surface via photographs. RESULTS: Scar width showed a significant improvement in the study group. CONCLUSIONS: Injection of autologous PRP provides effective improvement of cutaneous and muscular wound healing and decreases scar tissue formation.