Role of Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Author Type(s)
Resident/Fellow
Document Type
Review Article
Publication Date
7-18-2023
DOI
10.5312/wjo.v14.i7.505
Journal Title
World Journal of Orthopedics
Department
Medicine
Abstract
Shoulder pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint, and rotator cuff (RC) pathologies are one of the main causes. The RC undergoes various tendinopathic and avascular changes during the aging process. Other degenerative changes affecting its healing potential make it an appealing target for biological agents. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has demonstrated the potential to deliver a high concentration of several growth factors and anti-inflammatory mediators, and its clinical use is mainly supported by experiments that demonstrated its positive effect on muscle, ligaments, and tendinous cells. This review aimed to specify the role of PRP and its future applications in RC tendinopathies based on the current clinical evidence. Due to the different characteristics and conflicting outcomes, clinicians should use PRP with moderate expectations until more consistent evidence is available. However, it is reasonable to consider PRP in patients with contraindications to corticosteroid injections or those with risk factors for inadequate healing. Its autologous origin makes it a safe treatment, and its characteristics make it a promising option for treating RC tendinopathy, but the efficacy has yet to be established.
Recommended Citation
Velasquez Garcia, A., Ingala Martini, L., Franco Abache, A., & Abdo, G. (2023). Role of Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy. World Journal of Orthopedics, 14 (7), 505-515. https://doi.org/10.5312/wjo.v14.i7.505