ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of platelet rich plasma (PRP) in promoting wound healing of total hip arthroplasty (THA). MethodsBetween January 2011 and January 2012, 80 patients scheduled for THA and accorded with the inclusion criteria were divided into 2 groups:wounds were treated with PRP in 40 patients (PRP group) and with normal saline in 40 patients (control group). There was no significant difference in gender, age, disease duration, injury causes, sides, fracture type, and preoperative Harris hip scores between 2 groups (P>0.05). Routine drainage and functional exercise were performed after operation. ResultsThe postoperative drainage volume of PRP group[(137±26) mL] was significantly lower than that of control group[(424±39) mL] (t=38.726, P=0.000). At 4 days after operation, no inflammatory reaction was observed in 34 cases of PRP group and in 30 cases of control group, mild inflammatory reaction in 5 cases of PRP group and in 6 cases of control group, moderate inflammatory reaction in 1 case of PRP group and in 4 cases of control group; there was no significant difference between 2 groups (χ2=2.141, P=0.343). Wound healed by first intention in 40 patients of PRP group and in 39 patients of control group, showing no significant difference between 2 groups (P=1.000). The average follow-up period was 9 months (range, 6-12 months). The Harris hip scores of PRP group (90.2±2.5) and control group (89.3±3.1) at last follow-up were significantly better than those before operation (39.6±8.9 and 39.2±9.2 respectively) (t=34.618, P=0.000; t=32.638, P=0.000), but no significant difference was found between 2 groups (t=1.429, P=0.153). ConclusionUsing PRP in THA wound can reduce postoperative drainage volume, improve the healing of operation incision. It is a safe, effective, and promising procedure in treatment of THA wound.