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Although mechanical stabilisation has been a hallmark of orthopaedic surgical management, orthobiologics are now playing an increasing role. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a volume of plasma fraction of autologous blood having platelet concentrations above baseline. The platelet alpha granules are rich in growth factors that play an essential role in tissue healing, such as transforming growth factor-beta, vascular endothelial growth factor, and platelet-derived growth factor. PRP is used in various surgical fields to enhance bone and soft-tissue healing by placing supraphysiological concentrations of autologous platelets at the site of tissue damage. The easily obtainable PRP and its possible beneficial outcome hold promise for new regenerative treatment approaches. The aim of this literature review was to describe the bioactivities of PRP, to elucidate the different techniques for PRP preparation, to review animal and human studies, to evaluate the evidence regarding the use of PRP in trauma and orthopaedic surgery, to clarify risks, and to provide guidance for future research.

Original publication

DOI

10.1302/0301-620X.91B8.22546

Type

Journal article

Journal

J Bone Joint Surg Br

Publication Date

08/2009

Volume

91

Pages

987 - 996

Keywords

Animals, Female, Fracture Healing, Humans, Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins, Male, Orthopedic Procedures, Platelet-Rich Plasma, Specimen Handling, Wounds and Injuries