Platelet rich plasma applications in orthopedics: A review of recent advances

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has gained prominence in orthopedics as a regenerative approach that utilizes autologous platelets enriched with growth factors to facilitate tissue healing. Innovations such as protein-enriched filtered PRP and the integration of PRP with biomaterials, including 3D-printed scaffolds and bioactive molecules like kartogenin, have been developed to enhance outcomes in cartilage and bone repair. Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of PRP in managing conditions such as knee osteoarthritis, rotator cuff tendinopathy, and lateral epicondylitis, often showing superior long-term benefits compared with conventional treatments. Emerging therapies that combine PRP with mesenchymal stem cells and peptide-based treatments have shown synergistic effects, further enhancing tissue regeneration and functional recovery. Despite these promising developments, variability in PRP preparation methods and application protocols underscores the need for standardized guidelines and large-scale clinical trials to fully establish the role of PRP in orthopedic practice.