Systematic Review of Literature on the Efficiency of Using PRP in Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Abstract

Rotator cuff tears are one of the most common shoulder problems and the incidence of this condition is increasing along with an aging population. Despite satisfactory results for rotator cuff repair the quality and speed of healing remain problematic. Several studies have demonstrated that native tendon-bone insertions were not restored after tendon to bone repair. Healing of repaired tendons occurred via fibrous scar tissue formation rather than via the regeneration of a histologically normal insertion, and thus repaired tendons have inferior mechanical properties and are more susceptible to retear. Presumably, this is the most significant reason that account for tendon repair failure. Despite recent biomechanical advances in fixation, rates of retear are still high. Tendons consume little energy, and as a consequence healing is slow after injury. Increasing the speed of healing would allow earlier return to work, sport, and activities of daily living, which would be helpful for both the elite athlete and general public. Platelet rich plasma was first popularized in maxillofacial and plastic surgery, but now is thought to enhance and accelerate the repair and regeneration of a variety of tissues, such as bone, cartilage, tendon, ligament, and muscle. This systematic review reporting the effect of PRP after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Can platelet-rich plasma injections provide better pain relief and functional outcomes in persons with common shoulder diseases: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

“…In the literature, several reviews [31][32][33][34] have examined the role of PRP therapy as an adjunct treatment used during or after surgical repair of ligament injuries. However, reviews of PRP injections as a primary or standalone intervention in shoulder diseases have been minimal.…”