The efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) alone or in combination with low intensity shock wave therapy (Li-SWT) in treating erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis of seven randomized controlled trials.

Abstract

Background: The goal of this meta-analysis intended to identify the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) alone or in combination with low intensity shock wave therapy (Li-SWT) as a therapy for erectile dysfunction (ED).

Methods: This study integrated and analyzed the data using Cochrane method and GRADEpro GDT grading system. The registration number for this study was CRD42024618240.

Result: Seven randomized controlled trials with 660 patients were analyzed. The results indicated that compared with the control group, IIEF score of patients in the PRP group improved significantly at 12-week (p = 0.03) and 24-week (p = 0.0004), while there was no significant difference at 4-week. The PRP group had no significant advantages over the control group in terms of MCID and SEP Q3. For peak systolic velocity, patients in the PRP group demonstrated greater improvement than those in the control group (p < 0.00001). Subgroup analysis revealed that adding PRP regimen can considerably improve IIEF scores of ED patients compared to using Li-SWT alone (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion: PRP demonstrated a better efficacy in treating ED, especially during a follow-up period of 6 months. Compared with using Li-SWT alone, the addition of PRP can considerably improve the IIEF score of ED patients. These findings still required large-scale clinical trials for verification.