Ultrasound-guided injection of platelet-rich plasma or cord blood platelet-rich plasma in nonunion: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Aim: To compare the ability of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and cord blood PRP (PRPc) to accelerate bone healing. Patients & methods: 71 patients with mechanically stable nonunion were treated weekly (3 consecutive weeks) with ultrasound-guided percutaneous injections of PRP or PRPc in a controlled randomized clinical trial. The primary outcome was healing (12 months) and secondary outcomes were radiological evolution (2 and 6 months) and changes in pain intensity (6 months). Results & conclusion: Bone consolidation was assessed over time without significant differences between PRP and PRPc treatment. In patients with persistent nonunion, pain perception decreased more after PRP treatment. PRPc appears to be a valid alternative when specific clinical conditions suggest avoiding the use of autologous blood products.