Effect of platelet-rich plasma and amniotic membrane in patients with rotator cuff repair

Rotator cuff disorders are the most common source of shoulder problems, ranging from mild strain to massive tears. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), an autologous blood with platelets concentration above baseline values represents a source of multiple growth factors that promotes tissue repair. This review examines the potential of using PRP to augment rotator cuff repair. Reporting 4 patients with impingement syndrome and supraspinatus tear who underwent decompression acromioplasty and supraspinatus repair augmented with platelet-rich plasma and amniotic membrane. An evaluation was made 3-24 months postoperative using Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). Average preoperative pain score is 64%, disability score 54.58%, and total score 58.19%. Average postoperative pain score is 0%, disability score 0.42%, and total score 0.26% (Minimum Detectable Change at 90% confidence for pain score is 18%, disability score 13%, and total score 11%). This result is consequent with research by Luoay Fallouh, stating that improvement is caused by growth factor effects in platelet-rich plasma which promotes soft tissue healing. It can be concluded that platelet-rich plasma and amniotic membrane have promising effects to enhance soft tissue healing in patients with rotator cuff syndrome. Shoulder function is restored with no limitation on daily activity and pain is no longer present.