title: Platelet rich placebo? Evidence for platelet rich plasma in the treatment of tendinopathy and augmentation of tendon repair.
abstract: Platelet rich plasma (PRP), an autologous sample of blood with a platelet concentration above baseline values, is hypothesized to augment soft tissue healing. Its use in sports medicine has risen dramatically, with common applications including the treatment of refractory tendinopathy and augmenting tendon repair. Many commercial preparation systems are available, but the optimal preparation remains unknown. Increasing numbers of clinical studies evaluating PRP have been reported and have provided both positive and negative evidence for its effectiveness. Well-designed, controlled studies are still lacking, but PRP may have a benefit for patients with tendinopathy that is refractory to other non-surgical treatments. Its use in tendon repair is currently not supported. Randomized, controlled studies with documentation of platelet, white blood cell, and growth factor concentration in the PRP preparation are necessary for future comparative research. Use of PRP should be approached judiciously until further evidence is available.
authors.forename: Michael P
authors.initials: MP
authors.lastname: Hall
authors.forename: James P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Ward
authors.forename: Dennis A
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Cardone
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001804:Blood Transfusion, Autologous; D006801:Humans; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures; D017713:Platelet Transfusion; D053657:Platelet-Rich Plasma; D052256:Tendinopathy / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D013710:Tendons / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014945:Wound Healing