Effects of applying platelet-rich plasma during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Because of its healing properties, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been applied to the bone–tendon interface during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair to improve surgical outcomes. However, its effects remain ambiguous. Therefore, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effects of PRP on retear rate and functional outcomes. Randomised control trials were identified and extracted. Data collection was completed on 15 February 2020. The results are expressed as the risk ratio (RR) for the categorical variables and weighted mean difference for the continuous variables, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Analyses were performed using RevMan 5.3 software. Seven randomised controlled trials published from 2013 to 2018, with 541 patients in total, were included. The results revealed a significant decrease in retear rate [RR 0.38, 95% CI (0.22, 0.68), P = 0.0009). Furthermore, a significant improvement was observed regarding short-term Constant score [mean difference = 3.28, 95% CI (1.46, 5.11), P = 0.0004), short-term University of California at Los Angeles activity score [mean difference = 1.60, 95% CI (0.79, 2.42), P = 0.0001], and short-term visual analogue scale score [mean difference =  − 0.14, 95% CI (− 0.23, − 0.05), P = 0.002]. This systematic review indicates the efficacy of PRP when applied to the bone–tendon interface during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.