Management of platelet-rich plasma and stem cells versus conventional treatments in musculoskeletal injury repair: A systematic review

Musculoskeletal injuries are a prevalent cause of disability, often impairing daily function and overall well-being. Standard treatments – including physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and surgery – frequently fall short in achieving optimal outcomes. Regenerative strategies, particularly platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell (SC) therapies, have emerged as alternatives due to their biological capacity to promote tissue regeneration and repair. This systematic review synthesizes evidence from randomized controlled trials that compare PRP and SC interventions with conventional management of musculoskeletal injuries. Literature was systematically searched in PubMed, Embase, and LILACS for relevant studies published through a structured search strategy. A total of 23 studies met the eligibility criteria. Findings indicate that PRP facilitates early pain relief and functional gains, while SC therapies contribute to sustained regenerative effects. When used in combination, PRP and SC demonstrated enhanced clinical outcomes. Although no serious adverse events were consistently reported, marked heterogeneity in protocols and outcomes was observed. Risk of bias varied across studies, highlighting the need for methodological rigor. Overall, the evidence suggests that PRP and SC therapies hold potential for musculoskeletal repair. However, standardized protocols and further robust clinical trials are essential to confirm their safety, efficacy, and broader applicability.