# Comparison of Platelet-Rich Plasma Properties Used in Athletic Musculoskeletal Conditions: A Clinical Practice Report

## TL;DR

This study compares two kits for preparing platelet-rich plasma (PRP) used in treating athlete injuries, finding that one kit produces higher quality PRP.

## Contribution

The study introduces a classification system (DEPA) to evaluate PRP quality and compares PRP kits used in sports medicine.

## Key findings

- The 50 ml PRP kit produced higher platelet counts and better purity than the 20 ml kit.
- Both kits showed low efficiency in platelet recovery despite acceptable concentration levels.
- The DEPA classification system revealed superior quality scores for the 50 ml kit.

## Abstract

This study evaluates the properties of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) preparations used by a professional sports club's medical department for treating musculoskeletal conditions in athletes. PRP samples were prepared using 20 ml and 50 ml Hy-tissue® PRP Kits (Fidia Farmaceutici S.p.A., Abano Terme, Italy) from 13 total blood samples. They were analyzed to assess platelet (PLT), leukocyte, and red blood cell concentrations. Results showed both kits effectively concentrated PLT with an average enrichment factor of 2.9×, though the 50 ml kit produced higher total PLT counts (4.7 Bl) than the 20 ml kit (1.7 Bl). White and red blood cell levels were significantly reduced, indicating high PRP purity. DEPA (dose of injected PLT, efficiency of production, purity of the PRP, activation of the PRP) classification revealed a superior quality score, from A to D in the three prior parameters, for the 50 ml kit (BCA vs. CCA). Despite acceptable PLT concentration, the efficiency of PLT recovery was low across both kits. The findings underscore the importance of evaluating PRP characteristics to optimize therapeutic outcomes and highlight the need for protocol refinement to enhance preparation efficiency. These results advocate for standardized reporting and classification to support evidence-based application of PRP in sports medicine.