Abstract
Objectives:
This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to compare the clinical outcomes of PLT autografts versus HT autografts in ACLR.
Methods:
Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library to identify studies comparing PLT and HT autografts in ACLR. Inclusion criteria encompassed clinical trials evaluating ACLR with PLT or HT autografts. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using criteria from the Oxford Center for Evidence-based Medicine and the GRADE Working Group. Statistical analyses were performed using Review Manager version 5.3, with heterogeneity assessed via the I² statistic.
Results:
Out of 236 initial records, four studies met the inclusion criteria for qualitative and quantitative synthesis. The meta-analysis revealed a statistically significant improvement in International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores for PLT autografts compared to HT autografts (mean difference 3.16; 95% CI 2.00, 4.32). Lysholm scores showed no significant difference between the two groups (mean difference 1.56; 95% CI 0.03, 3.09). PLT autografts demonstrated similar knee laxity outcomes and graft survival rates to HT autografts, with minimal donor site complications.
Conclusion:
PLT autografts offer a promising alternative to HT autografts in ACLR, providing comparable functional outcomes and graft survival rates. The use of PLT may also mitigate potential donor site complications associated with intra-knee graft harvesting. Further research is warranted to standardize PLT harvesting techniques and evaluate long-term outcomes.