The Effect of Platelet Dose on Outcomes after Platelet Rich Plasma Injections for Musculoskeletal Conditions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med. 2024 Sep 27. doi: 10.1007/s12178-024-09922-x. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Purpose of review: This study aims to systematically review platelet dosage in platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections for common musculoskeletal conditions.

Recent findings: Notable heterogeneity exists in the literature regarding platelet dosage. Clinical studies indicate that a higher dosage may lead to improved outcomes concerning pain relief, functional improvement, and chondroprotection in knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, the impact of dosing on other musculoskeletal pathologies remains uncertain. Our investigation identifies a potential dose-response relationship between platelet dose and PRP effectiveness for knee OA treatment, pinpointing an optimal threshold of greater than 10 billion platelets for favorable clinical outcomes. Notably, this effect appears more pronounced for functional outcomes than for pain relief. For other conditions, a lower dosage may suffice, although the existing literature lacks clarity on this matter. PRP dosage may significantly influence treatmentoutcomes, particularly in knee OA. Further research is warranted to elucidate optimal dosages for varying conditions.

Keywords: Osteoarthritis (OA); Platelet dosage; Platelet dosing; Platelet rich plasma (PRP); Tendinopathy.

Publication types

  • Review