Biochemical, mechanical, and morphological properties of a completely autologous platelet-rich wound sealant

The optimal composition of fibrin sealant preparations is not known. We, therefore, sought to construct a series of sealants from autologous components and compare their functioning to Bioseal a commonly used sealant. Characteristics of the platelet-rich plasma, cryoprecipitate, and thrombin were determined and compared to commercial glue from composition, function, and microscopy aspects. The concentrations of platelets as well as fibronectin in autologous fibrin glues were significantly higher than those in commercial ones (P<0.001). Mechanical values (maximum amplitude and clot strength) obtained from thrombelastograph assays in two groups were not significantly different (P>0.05). A dense platelet surface and fibrin net structures could be observed in the autologous samples, whereas there were only sparse fibrin nets without cellular components in Bioseal. Characterization of autologous and Bioseal fibrin sealants and their performance do not have significant difference in biochemical and mechanical properties. The entirely autologous platelet-rich gel in the present study may get wide application in future practice after confirmation of its safety, efficiency, and economic benefits.