Comparative Effects of Platelet-Rich Plasma, Prostaglandin E1, and Dexpanthenol on Wound Healing in an Experimental Pharyngocutaneous Fistula Model

Objective: Pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) remains a major complication after laryngopharyngeal surgery. Experimental data investigating potential therapeutic agents for improving PCF healing are limited. This study aimed to establish a reproducible rat model of PCF and to evaluate the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), and dexpanthenol on wound healing using macroscopic and histopathological parameters. Methods: Twenty-eight female Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly assigned to 4 groups, each containing 7 rats. A standardized pharyngeal perforation was created for PCF and left to heal. The first group was the control group. Groups 2, 3, and 4 received PRP, PGE1, and dexpanthenol, respectively, by local application to the fistula wound bed during surgery, followed by once-daily local wound-bed application for 6 consecutive days. All rats corresponding to all groups were sacrificed on the seventh day. They were evaluated macroscopically and histopathologically. Results: Macroscopic evaluation showed that fistula opening was less frequent in the PRP group than in the control group. Histopathological evaluation demonstrated more favorable wound-healing parameters, particularly increased collagen deposition and altered inflammatory cell density, mainly in the PRP and dexpanthenol groups. Conclusion: Platelet-rich plasma greatly improved the healing parameters in the experimental PCF model. Prostaglandin E1 and dexpanthenol also showed positive effects. These findings indicate possible therapeutic roles; however, clinical studies are necessary to validate their applicability.