PRP Augmentation in Rotator Cuff Repair: Findings from Recent Studies

In a retrospective cohort study, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) gel applied at the tendon–bone interface during arthroscopic repair accelerated functional recovery and improved tendon healing, with a clinically relevant reduction in retear risk at 6 months.

The cohort evaluated 152 patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with thrombin‑activated PRP gel placed under direct visualization at the tendon–bone interface (PRP n=91; control n=61). Primary endpoints included change in Constant–Murley Score and MRI‑based Sugaya grade at 6 months; standardized assessments also captured ASES, SSV, VAS pain, and tendon thickness to quantify clinical and structural healing.

The PRP group showed faster and larger functional gains by 6 months (ΔCMS 23.33 vs 13.08, p<0.01; ΔASES 45.56 vs 38.78, p<0.01; SSV 82.97% vs 78.85%, p=0.006) and greater pain reduction (ΔVAS 3.97 vs 3.51, p<0.01). Imaging corroborated these improvements: Sugaya I/II occurred in 89.0% of PRP patients versus 54.1% of controls (p<0.001), retear rates (Sugaya IV/V) were lower (2.2% vs 13.1%), and tendon thickness was greater (0.63 ± 0.08 cm vs 0.50 ± 0.06 cm, p<0.001).

The magnitude of benefit is clinically meaningful: the PRP cohort achieved ~10‑point greater CMS gain and a ~35 percentage‑point higher rate of favorable MRI healing—changes associated with lower retear risk and potential earlier return to work or sport. These shifts can shorten recovery trajectories and align with enhanced‑recovery pathways, potentially reducing time away from productivity and downstream socioeconomic costs.