How Is PRP Being Used in ENT Practice? Mapping Current Evidence
摘要
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a concentrated autologous blood product rich in growth factors, has emerged as a promising therapeutic tool in regenerative medicine. Its application in otorhinolaryngology (ENT) has gained increasing attention, yet a comprehensive synthesis of the current evidence is lacking. This scoping review aims to map and summarize the existing literature on the clinical applications of PRP in the management of various otorhinolaryngological conditions. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science was conducted with no date restrictions. Studies reporting original data on PRP use in ENT were included. Data extraction and study selection followed the Arksey and O’Malley framework and PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies were categorized by clinical indication and assessed for study design, population, intervention, and outcomes. Out of 1883 initial records, 61 studies involving 3854 patients met the inclusion criteria. PRP was most frequently applied in tympanoplasty/myringoplasty (n=19), olfactory dysfunction (n=15), and nasal surgery (n=10). Reported benefits included improved graft uptake, enhanced mucosal healing, reduced postoperative complications, and improved functional outcomes. However, significant heterogeneity in PRP preparation methods, treatment protocols, and outcome measures was observed. Limited evidence was available for other indications, such as vocal fold lesions, sensorineural hearing loss, mastoid reconstruction, and postoperative recovery in tonsillectomy. PRP shows promising potential in selected ENT procedures, particularly tympanoplasty and treatment of post-viral olfactory dysfunction. Nevertheless, current evidence is limited by heterogeneity and small sample sizes. Further large-scale, standardized trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and define clinical guidelines for PRP use in otorhinolaryngology.