Platelet-Rich Plasma in Sports Medicine: New Treatment for Tendon and Cartilage Lesions

The administration of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an innovative approach in the management of cartilage and tendon lesions. PRP is an autologous blood derivative that contains a higher concentration of platelets with respect to baseline blood level. The biological rationale is that platelets are a source of several growth factors and other bioactive molecules that play an important role in tissue homeostasis and healing process. The application of PRP on damaged sites could therefore favor tissue regeneration. PRP has been applied in several clinical conditions, both as a conservative injective approach or as an “augmentation” during surgical procedures. Studies have been published concerning the treatment of Achilles, patellar, and elbow tendinopathy, as well as rotator cuff lesions and cartilage degeneration of the knee. This review analyzes and reports the available evidence in the literature regarding clinical application of PRP in treating cartilage and tendon disorders. The evaluation of the preliminary results showed an encouraging clinical outcome, thus explaining the large interest this therapeutic approach has gained among scientists and clinicians. However, further high-level research is needed to confirm these results, determining the best indication criteria and application methods.