Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: Application of topical autologous plasma rich growth factors (P.R.G.F) combined with amniotic membrane transplantation to promote corneal tissue regeneration. Methods: In chronic corneal epithelium defects and acute corneal perforations, autologous P.R.G.F was used in combination with amniotic membrane transplantation. Growth factors released from the platelets include transforming beta type GF (TGF–ß), platelets derived GF (PDGF), epithelial GF (EGF), fibroblastic GF (FGF), endothelial vascular GF (VEGF) and insulin type 1 GF (IGF–1). These factors signal the local mesenchymal and epithelial cells to migrate, proliferate and differentiate restoring the ocular surface damages. The autologous blood was obtained by venipuncture and centrifuged. Concentrated platelets were activated by calcium chloride formating a clot that was applicated over the ocular defect followed by amniotic membrane transplantation. We used P.R.G.F eye drops for postsurgical treatment applied 6 times/day during 1 month. Results: 10 eyes were evaluated until epithelial wound closure. Patients were followed up for 1 year. A complete corneal re–epithelialization was achieved in 100% of cases. This novel therapy was found to be highly successful in severe corneal perforations. Conclusions: The combination of amniotic membrane transplantation with autologous P.R.G.F therapy leads to speeding healing up in cases of chronic corneal ulcers and acute corneal perforations. This novel and potentially promising technique can be considered as an effective and easy therapy without adverse events which stimulates tissue regeneration in pathologic conditions.
Keywords: cornea: clinical science • wound healing • growth factors/growth factor receptors