Autologous Platelet Derived Grow Factors (Platelet Rich Plasma) as an Adjunct to Mucosal Advancement Flap in High Cryptoglandular Peri-Anal Fistulae: A Pilot Study

Background: In this prospective pilot study, we explored autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP) as an adjunct to the staged mucosal advancement flap in the treatment of peri-anal fistulae.

Methods: Between February 2006 and May 2007, ten patients with fistula tracts transversing from the middle third or upper part of the anal sphincter were treated for at least three months with non-cutting setons prior to definitive closure by autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP) as an adjunct to a mucosal advancement flap (MF). Five patients smoked tobacco.

Results: The study group consisted of six women and four men with a median age of 44 years (range 30-75) and a median follow-up of 26 months (range 17-32). One (10%) patient had a recurrent fistula. No new continence disorders developed after definitive treatment in both groups.

Conclusion: PRP as an adjunct to staged mucosal advancement flap for the treatment of peri-anal cryptoglandular fistulae is a promising treatment modality and seems to establish a high healing rate.