Leukocyte Poor Platelet Rich Plasma vs Leukocyte Rich Platelet Rich Plasma as a Treatment for Cervical Facetogenic Pain: A Pooled Analysis.

David J. Allison, Eldon Loh, Robert Burnham, Taylor Burnham, Ashley Smith, March 9, 2025

What question is this study trying to answer?

This study compares the effectiveness and safety of leukocyte-poor platelet-rich plasma (LP-PRP) versus leukocyte-rich platelet-rich plasma (LR-PRP) in treating chronic cervical facetogenic pain, focusing on pain relief and functional improvement over 3 and 6 months.

What did we learn?

Both LP-PRP and LR-PRP significantly reduced pain and improved neck function, but LR-PRP showed superior long-term benefits at 6 months, with greater reductions in pain intensity and disability scores. More participants receiving LR-PRP achieved clinically meaningful improvements, and LR-PRP was associated with fewer adverse events compared to LP-PRP, which had more cases of increased pain and muscle spasms.

Why is this relevant?

PRP is an emerging treatment for chronic cervical facetogenic pain, but the role of leukocyte concentration in PRP preparations remains unclear. This pooled analysis suggests that LR-PRP, with its higher leukocyte content, may provide enhanced and safer therapeutic outcomes compared to LP-PRP. These findings support further research to optimize PRP formulations for better management of chronic neck pain.

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