2014 ; 22(5): 569–578 | Stephan Barrientos, MD, Harold Brem, MD, Olivera Stojadinovic, MD, and Marjana Tomic-Canic, PhD
This review article discusses the clinical application of growth factors and cytokines in wound healing, focusing on their therapeutic effects in non-healing wounds such as pressure ulcers, chronic venous ulcers, and diabetic foot ulcers. The authors conducted a literature search and critically analyzed studies on the role of growth factors and cytokines, including granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). While the clinical results are encouraging, many studies have small sample sizes and varied endpoints, necessitating further research to provide definitive evidence of efficacy. The article highlights the importance of debridement and the need for optimal delivery methods and combination therapies. Despite the promising results, larger randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and long-term outcomes of these treatments.This review article discusses the clinical application of growth factors and cytokines in wound healing, focusing on their therapeutic effects in non-healing wounds such as pressure ulcers, chronic venous ulcers, and diabetic foot ulcers. The authors conducted a literature search and critically analyzed studies on the role of growth factors and cytokines, including granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). While the clinical results are encouraging, many studies have small sample sizes and varied endpoints, necessitating further research to provide definitive evidence of efficacy. The article highlights the importance of debridement and the need for optimal delivery methods and combination therapies. Despite the promising results, larger randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and long-term outcomes of these treatments.