BIOLOGIC AUGMENTATION IN ACL RECONSTRUCTION: THE USE OF PLATELET-RICH PLASMA

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a common surgical procedure aimed at restoring knee stability. Despite advancements in surgical techniques, graft healing and integration remain challenges. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been proposed as a biologic adjunct to enhance graft healing due to its high concentration of growth factors. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 120 patients undergoing ACL reconstruction with hamstring autografts. Participants were divided into two groups: those receiving PRP augmentation and a control group without PRP. Outcomes measured included graft integration assessed by MRI at 6 and 12 months, functional outcomes using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, and postoperative complication rates. Results: The PRP group demonstrated significantly better graft maturation scores on MRI at both 6 and 12 months postoperatively (p<0.01). Functional outcomes were improved in the PRP group, with higher IKDC scores observed at 12 months (p=0.02). There were no significant differences in complication rates between the two groups. Conclusion: PRP augmentation in ACL reconstruction may enhance graft maturation and improve functional outcomes without increasing complications. PRP represents a promising biologic adjunct in ACL surgery.