Platelet-Rich Plasma in Plastic Surgery: A Systematic Review

Abstract

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is gaining popularity and is applied in a variety of clinical settings. This review aims to present and evaluate available evidence regarding the use of PRP in various applications in plastic surgery. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, and Embase were searched using predefined MeSH terms to identify studies concerning the application of PRP alone or in combination with fat grafting for plastic surgery. The search was limited to articles in English or German. Animal studies, in vitro studies, case reports, and case series were excluded. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Of 50 studies included in this review, eleven studies used PRP for reconstruction or wound treatment, eleven for cosmetic procedures, four for hand surgery, two for burn injuries, five for craniofacial disorders, and 17 as an adjuvant to fat grafting. Individual study characteristics were summarized. Considerable variation in preparation protocols and treatment strategies were observed. Even though several beneficial effects of PRP therapy were described, significance was not always demonstrated, and some studies yielded conflicting results. Efficacy of PRP was not universally proven in every field of application. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> This study presents an overview of current PRP treatment options and outcomes in plastic surgery. PRP may be beneficial for some indications explored in this review; however, currently available data are insufficient and systematic evaluation is limited due to high heterogeneity in PRP preparation and treatment regimens. Further randomized controlled trials employing standardized protocols are warranted.

A bibliometric analysis of trends in the application of platelet‐rich plasma in cosmetics research between 2001 and 2022

“…Furthermore, they stimulate the formation of collagen and extracellular matrix components, which aid in skin repair and regeneration as well as effectively improve skin barrier, immune, stress, and other physiological functions. 6,7 PRP has widely used in cosmetic practice, like rejuvenation, acne, hair loss, combined fat grafting, or combined laser treatment. [7][8][9][10][11][12][13] Since the first publications in this area in 2001, several researchers have discussed the benefits of PRP in clinical aesthetic treatments, but a systematic analysis of previous research and forecasting of future trends is still lacking.…”

“…Together, these growth factors and cytokines play a key role in cell proliferation, migration, differentiation, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, they stimulate the formation of collagen and extracellular matrix components, which aid in skin repair and regeneration as well as effectively improve skin barrier, immune, stress, and other physiological functions 6,7 . PRP has widely used in cosmetic practice, like rejuvenation, acne, hair loss, combined fat grafting, or combined laser treatment 7–13 .…”

ATMPs: New Challenge for Transfusion Services

“…The review on the use of PRP in plastic surgery by Hasiba-Pappas et al [6] summarizes the data of 50 published studies assessing the clinical efficacy of PRP in cranio-fascial and hand surgery as well as in reconstructive surgery, burn injury, and as adjuvant in fat grafting. Diversity of preparation processes of PRP as well as heterogeneity in study design preclude firm conclusions on the beneficial effects of PRP.…”