Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Accelerating Long Bone Fracture Healing: A Prospective Comparative Study
Keywords:
platelet-rich plasma; long bone fracture; fracture healing; RUST score; orthobiologics; intramedullary fixation; functional recoveryAbstract
Background: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous orthobiologic concentrate enriched with growth factors that promote tissue regeneration. Despite broad clinical interest, evidence for its role in primary long bone fracture healing remains limited in Central Asian populations. Methods: A prospective comparative study enrolled 26 patients who received PRP-augmented internal fixation and 26 controls who underwent standard fixation alone at Fergana Medical Institute of Public Health. Outcomes included radiological union (RUST score), time to union, functional recovery (LEFS), and complication rates over 24 weeks. Results: The PRP group achieved radiological union significantly earlier (14.2 +/- 2.1 vs. 18.6 +/- 2.8 weeks; p < 0.001). RUST scores at 12 weeks and LEFS scores at 6 months were significantly superior in the PRP group. Complication rates were comparable between groups. Conclusion: Intraoperative PRP augmentation significantly accelerates radiological and functional recovery in long bone fractures, supporting its integration into routine fixation protocols.
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