Applications and limits of platelet-rich plasma in sports related injuries

Abstract

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a promising alternative approach based on the efficacy of autologous growth factors to accelerate tissue healing, allowing a fast recovery after muscles, ligaments, tendon or cartilage lesions. This literature review begin focusing on the role of platelets growth factors in these tissue healing and on the available preparation methods for PRP. Moreover we consider the in vitro and in vivo study on PRP, some of the most important therapeutic applications and limitations. Although several preclinical studies show promising results, clinical studies still show controversial results. Further studies are required to define the efficacy and to specify the way of using PRP in the orthopaedic practice.