Editorial Commentary: Published Literature on Platelet-Rich Plasma Is Extensive but Flawed in Methodology

Abstract

Recent research shows that most orthopaedic published investigations on platelet-rich plasma (PRP) lack reporting of preparation methods or PRP composition. The studies are thus unreproducible and the outcomes cannot be verified. Unfortunately, this is not surprising. A PubMed search reveals more than 500 orthopaedic PRP publications from 2023 alone, almost 42 musculoskeletal PRP papers per month, and unfortunately, despite peer review, Nature reports that 44% of published research is flawed and 26% of studies cannot be trusted. PubMed citation does not ensure quality. Guidelines and checklists such as the CONSORT statement (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trails) can result in quality.