Orthopaedics is probably the field in which platelet-rich plasma (PRP) boasts the broadest body of scientific literature. From knee osteoarthritis to tendinopathies, for many patients PRP represents an intermediate option between conservative therapy and surgery. In this in-depth article we focus on orthopaedic uses; for a complete overview, please see our main article dedicated to PRP.
Knee osteoarthritis
The use of PRP in intra-articular injections for knee osteoarthritis is among the most studied. In selected patients it can help reduce pain and improve joint mobility, with an effect that aims to support the function of the joint. The response varies from patient to patient and must always be clinically assessed.
Tendinopathies
In tendinopathies, such as lateral epicondylitis (the so-called “tennis elbow”), PRP is used to stimulate the tendon’s repair processes. Evidence indicates that certain factors, such as platelet concentration, can influence the outcome of the treatment, one more reason to rely on a standardised, high-quality preparation.
Muscle and tendon injuries
PRP may also be proposed in the treatment of certain muscle and tendon injuries, particularly in sports, where the aim is to support a solid recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence. Here too, PRP is part of a pathway that integrates rehabilitation and follow-up.
An option between conservative and surgical care
For many patients, PRP represents a possibility to consider when conservative therapy is not sufficient but surgery is not yet indicated or desired. The choice must always be personalised, based on the diagnosis and the characteristics of the individual case.
Safety and quality of preparation
At Medical Center Sorengo, PRP is prepared with a closed, sterile system compliant with Swiss regulations, in which the blood never comes into contact with the external environment. Every treatment is performed and supervised by specialist physicians and qualified nursing staff.
The Medical Center Sorengo approach
Orthopaedic PRP is part of a vision of precision medicine: every treatment starts from an accurate diagnosis and an individual assessment, within an integrated, evidence-based pathway.
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Recent bibliography
Jawanda H, Khan ZA, Warrier AA, et al. Platelet-Rich Plasma, Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate, and Hyaluronic Acid Injections Outperform Corticosteroids in Pain and Function Scores at a Minimum of 6 Months as Intra-Articular Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis. Arthroscopy. 2024;40(5):1623-1636.e1. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.arthro.2024.01.037
Oeding JF, Varady NH, Messer CJ, Dines JS, Williams RJ, Rodeo SA. Platelet Concentration Explains Variability in Outcomes of Platelet-Rich Plasma for Lateral Epicondylitis: A High Dose Is Critical for a Positive Response. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis With Meta-regression. Am J Sports Med. 2025;53(10):2489-2496. https://doi.org/10.1177/03635465241303716