**Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) in Orthopedics and Traumatology — Review**

Pencho Kossev and Tsvetan Sokolov

Additional information is available at the end of the chapter

http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/61326

#### **Abstract**

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172 Immunopathology and Immunomodulation

In the last few years various methods are being applied in the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) during treatment in different orthopedic disease and sports trauma. They allow im‐ provement of local biological condition and regeneration of different types of tissues. PRP is a modern treatment strategy with worldwide recognition. There is a high concen‐ tration of platelet growth factors in small amounts of plasma. PRP and its various forms have become one of the best methods to support the healing process of various tissues. PRP is used in regenerative medicine, because it provides two of three components (growth factors and scaffolds) necessary for complete tissue regeneration. The particular reason for the appearance of lesions is important in order to select an appropriate treat‐ ment method and technical application. Main indications are acute and chronic wounds, pseudarthrosis, ligament and muscle injuries, some tendinopathies, osteoarthritis, chon‐ dral injuries.

**Keywords:** Platelet rich plasma, platelets, platelet growth factors, chronic skin wounds

#### **1. Introduction**

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a modern treatment strategy with worldwide recognition. PRP was introduced in the 1950s and is currently used in multiple fields of medicine. There is high concentration of platelet growth factors in small amounts of plasma. This works for offering an ''ideal environment'' for tissue regeneration and is part of the so-called biological therapy. The PRP implementation is an autologous therapy, which eliminates the risk of blood-borne infections. PRP and its various forms has become one of the best methods to support the healing process of various tissues. The term "regenerative medicine" was introduced in the 1990s. Many studies related to stem cells, growth factors, and extracellular matrix support the development of this new treatment philosophy. It differs from classic tissue engineering,

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where tissue regenerates ex vivo. Here, the major idea is regeneration of fully functional tissue on the spot, while damaged tissue is provided for by cellular elements and the process is managed by local factors. PRP appears to be the main source of autologous products in regenerative medicine and a true precursor and foundation of the healing process along with scaffold and stem cells [1]. PRP is used in regenerative medicine, because it provides two of the three components (growth factors and scaffolds), necessary for complete tissue regenera‐ tion. This review discusses the state-of the-art-studies on PRP action mechanisms in surgical and non-surgical implementation (treatment of tendon injuries, cartilage damage, muscle trauma, cartilage and bone pathologies, and wound healing).
