Autologous Platelet Concentrates in Sports Medicine: Mechanisms of Tissue Regeneration and Clinical Applications – A Narrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.54.70256Keywords
autologous platelet concentrates, platelet-rich plasma, platelet-rich fibrin, sports medicine, musculoskeletal injuries, tissue regenerationAbstract
Background. Sports-related musculoskeletal injuries remain a major problem in both professional and recreational athletes because of their high incidence, prolonged recovery, and the limited regenerative potential of some tissues. In this context, regenerative medicine has attracted increasing interest, particularly through the use of autologous platelet concentrates, which may enhance repair by delivering growth factors and other bioactive mediators to injured tissues.
Aim. To summarize current evidence on autologous platelets concentrates in sports medicine, with emphasis on their biological mechanisms, major formulations, clinical applications, and limitations.
Material and methods. A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing mainly on studies published between 2010 and 2026. Eligible publications included randomized controlled trials, clinical studies, observational studies, and review articles evaluating autologous platelet concentrates in sports-related musculoskeletal injuries.
Results. Autologous platelet concentrates may promote tissue regeneration through the release of mediators involved in angiogenesis, cell proliferation, inflammatory modulation, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Major formulations include platelet-rich plasma, leukocyte-rich and pure platelet-rich plasma, platelet-rich fibrin, injectable platelet-rich fibrin, and concentrated growth factors. Clinical studies suggest potential benefits in selected tendon, muscle, ligament, and cartilage injuries, although findings remain inconsistent. The main limitations include protocol heterogeneity, variable product composition, and lack of standardization.
Conclusions. Autologous platelet concentrates are promising adjuncts in sports medicine, but their effectiveness appears to be indication-specific rather than universal. Further protocol standardization and high-quality clinical trials are needed to support broader evidence-based use.
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