The Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Administration in Treating Spinal Cord Injuries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Preclinical Evidence

Background: The present systematic review and meta-analysis was designed to investigate platelet-rich plasma as an effective treatment for spinal cord injury in animal models. Method: An extensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases. The included studies were summarized based on the investigated outcomes, including functional recovery and cavity size. Data were recorded as mean and standard deviation. The relationship between variables and the outcomes was investigated based on the “meta” command in the STATA 17.0 statistical program. Results: In total, 9 articles were included in the present meta-analysis. Pooled data analysis showed that the administration of platelet-rich plasma significantly improved the motor function of animals (SMD= 1.5; 95%CI: 0.9 - 2.1; p< 0.0001). In subgroup analysis based on the severity of the injury, platelet-rich plasma administration significantly improved the motor function of animals in both moderate (SMD= 2.59l 95%CI: 1.59 - 3.59; p< 0.0001; I2= 30.22%) and severe injuries (SMD= 1.22; 95%CI: 0.64 - 1.79; p< 0.0001; I2= 56.35%); However, the recovery of function was significantly more in animals with moderate spinal cord injury (Meta-regression coefficient= -1.36; 95%CI: -2.68 - -0.09; p= 0.035). In the assessment of cavity size, pooled data analysis showed that PRP administration results in a significant reduction in cavity size (SMD= -2.2; 95%CI: -3.44 - -0.95; p< 0.0001). Discussion: This meta-analysis showed that the administration of platelet-rich plasma can significantly improve motor function and reduce the cavity size in animals with moderate to severe spinal cord injuries.