Published Literature on Platelet Rich Plasma Is Extensive but Flawed in Methodology

Abstract

Recent research shows that most orthopaedic published investigations on platelet rich plasma (PRP) lack reporting of preparation methods or PRP composition. The studies are thus unreproducible, and the outcomes cannot be verified. Unfortunately, this is not surprising. PubMed search reveals over 500 orthopaedic PRP publications from 2023 alone, almost 42 musculoskeletal PRP papers per month, and unfortunately, despite peer review, "Nature" reports that 44% of published research is flawed, and 26% of studies cannot be trusted. PubMed citation does not ensure quality. Guidelines and checklists such as the CONSORT statement (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trails) can result in quality.