Do plasma-rich protein injections have a role in orthopaedics? A systematic review and meta-analysis of the randomized control trials

Abstract

We evaluated the effectiveness of plasma-rich protein injections (PRP) in terms of pain, patient-reported outcomes and function in degenerative joint disease and tendinopathy. The search strategies were ran in Ovid Medline and Ovid Embase in October 2023 by a clinical librarian. Results were limited to the last 10 years. The search terms used were ‘platelet rich plasma’ and ‘orthopaedics’. After screening and the eligibility process this resulted in 18 randomized control trials (RCTs). We analysed 18 level 1 RCTs in regard to gluteal tendinopathy, hip osteoarthritis, patella tendinopathy, knee osteoarthritis, Achilles tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, rotator cuff tendinopathy and elbow tendinopathy. Further research, such as meta-analyses and double-blinded trials with more patients, longer follow-up and with a placebo group, is needed to better elucidate the safety and efficacy of PRP injections.