Evaluation the effect of isogenically prepared platelet-rich plasma on the viability of composite graft in the rabbit model (Experimental study)

Aim: Necrosis in composite grafts used for the repair of tissue defects in the nasal wings, columella, and nasal sidewalls after tumor resection or trauma is an important problem related to the size of the graft. Success in the surgical or medical interventions on the recipient field or graft in order to enhance composite graft survival is clinically limited. The aim of this study is to research the effect of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on composite graft viability during graft operation. Materials and Methods: One of the eight adults New Zealand white rabbits was used isogenically to obtain PRP. Circular full-thickness chondrocutaneous composite grafts in 2 cm diameter were excised from the both ears of each remaining seven rabbits. Right ears were separated as experimental group and left ears were selected as control group. In the experimental group, PRP was applied subcutaneously to the four different points on inner and outer surfaces at the graft donor and topically to the graft sides. The composite graft was turned 180 degrees, and it is sutured back to the donor area. PRP was also applied on suture lines. Composite grafts formed in control group were turned for 180 degrees and sutured without any application. At the end of the 21st day, histological evaluation was performed following measurement and photodocumentation of living and necrosis areas. Results: In the control group, except one total necrosis, partial necrosis and viable areas were identified at the other composite grafts. Mean viable area measurements in the experimental group were 33.62% and 21.15% in the control group (P < 0.05). Histological evaluation was based on the appearance of chondrocyte nuclei in the lacuna in cartilage tissue and the living areas were confirmed histologically. Angiogenesis, fibroblast proliferation, and inflammatory cell proliferation were not significantly different between the groups. Conclusion: Although the viability ratio in the experiment group was found significantly higher than that of the control group, 100% of viability ratio was not identified in any of the composite grafts. However, our findings support that PRP is positively effective on the enhancement of the composite graft viability as well.