Platelet-rich plasma and blood components for non-transfusion use: technical and medicolegal aspects

There are a large number of publications describing the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in multiple fields of application. These illustrate a large number of therapeutic elements with different and specific actions within 'platelet gel' (this term is used in the current regulations to define this product). This term, however, lacks specificity and, depending on the method used in its production is variable both in its blood composition and in platelet concentration, and several publications consider better and easier methods of platelet gel production, which may or may not lead to greater standardization in the product. The authors illustrate the general aspects of PRP and other blood components for non-transfusion use, briefly touching on the history and different fields of application and the rational of for its use. Given the increased use of such preparations, the authors describe critically the regulations in force in Europe and propose a new regulatory framework aimed to simplify and facilitate the use of such material as a therapeutic agent within medicine.