Barriers to the acceptance and use of autologous platelet gel.

The process of producing and applying platelet concentrate (gel) to wounds has been shown by several researchers to accelerate healing and promote tissue regeneration in a broad spectrum of healthcare practices. Despite the evidence, widespread adoption of this technology has not occurred. The purpose of this research is to identify those factors acting as barriers to the adoption of platelet gel use. Subscribers to Perflist and Perfmail, online perfusion community listservs, were invited to participate in an online survey designed to identify factors influencing platelet gel adoption. Respondents provided their opinions on cost, clinical application, effectiveness, and perceived barriers to adoption and use of platelet gel. Statistical analysis of the non-user responses identifies lack of reimbursement and physician acceptance as significant barriers to the adoption of platelet gel. Questionable efficacy, cost, additional training, and the lack of personnel do not appear to be significant barriers to the use of platelet gel. There does not appear to be a significant difference among the user and non-user employment distributions. This study suggests that education of physicians via literature reviews or in-service plays a significant role in gaining adoption of platelet gel.