To compare the clinical value of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy versus microfracture technique in rotator cuff repair. A retrospective study included 142 patients undergoing rotator cuff repair surgery, divided into PRP, microfracture, and control groups. Postoperative tendon-bone union, shoulder function scores (ASES, UCLA), pain scores (VAS), and complication rates were compared across groups. Baseline characteristics were comparable across groups. Both PRP and microfracture techniques effectively promoted tendon-bone healing and improved shoulder function, outperforming the control group. Safety profiles were equivalent between the two intervention groups. However, early VAS scores indicated higher pain levels in the microfracture group compared to both the PRP group and control groups. Both PRP and microfracture techniques demonstrate sound clinical utility and safety in rotator cuff repair. PRP yields milder early postoperative pain, while microfracture offers cost advantages. Clinicians may tailor intervention choices based on individual patient factors including pain tolerance and financial circumstances.
Li et al. (Sun,) studied this question.