Platelet-rich plasma-contained drug delivery systems to treat orthopedic injuries

Abstract

Orthopedic disorders affecting bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and other tissues are prevalent among outpatients, often caused by trauma, sports, or tumor removal. Surgical intervention is common but may yield unsatisfactory results due to limited regenerative capacity and poor blood supply. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), an autologous biocomponent, has been clinically applied in tissue regeneration and repair, yet it faces challenges such as unclear mechanisms, side effects, and uncontrollable release. This review provides evidence for further clinical research on PRP and its associated drug delivery strategies in orthopedics. We searched multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases Inclusion criteria focused on original studies containing the phrases (“orthopedic injuries,” “nanotechnology,” “microsphere,” or “drug delivery system”) and (“platelet-rich plasma”) over two decades to provide evidence to support further clinical research on PRP combined with nanotechnology in osteoarthritis, fractures, cartilage repair, and other orthopedic fields. Excluding criteria were referred to studies only describing “nanotechnology,” “microsphere,” or “drug delivery system”. In conclusion, PRP is a novel therapeutic tool for orthopedic diseases with advantages over traditional surgery. However, its clinical efficacy, action mechanisms, and preparation standards need further clarification. Future research should optimize PRP's therapeutic concentration, administration, and timing, and explore high-concentration PRP GFs as alternatives.