Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Treatment of Facet Mediated Low Back Pain: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Background Facet-mediated pain is a major cause of low back pain and as a result, is a significant cause of morbidity, including disability and reduced functionality. Setting The present investigation involved a PubMed literature review between June 1, and 2021-January 1, 2022. Methods We systematically reviewed was carried Pubmed using the search terms “platelet-rich plasma”, “inflammatory mediators”, “facet arthropathy”, “axial back pain”, and “leukoreduction”. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed by 3 independent reviewers. Out of the studies analyzed 2 were retrospective, while 1 was a prospective study. Results PRP injections for facet mediated or modulated pain are an alternative to conventional pharmacotherapies and interventional injections/radiofrequency. There are limited numbers of studies in world literature at present. Limitations Small number of articles in the world literature and small numbers of patients in those published studies. Conclusions At present, there are limited studies in the literature; however, larger well-designed studies are warranted to precisely understand efficacy, potential side effects and best practice techniques for PRP injections for facet mediated or modulated pain.