ULTRASOUND-GUIDED PLATELET-RICH PLASMA INJECTION THERAPY IN PARTIAL THICKNESS ROTATOR CUFF TEARS: LONG-TERM RESULTS

Abstract

Introduction: Rotator cuff tendinopathy/partial tear is the most common cause of shoulder pain encountered in clinical practice. The treatment varies from conservative to surgical options. Recently there has been extensive use of blood-derived products for the healing of tendon injuries. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is hypothesized to augment tendon healing due to various growth factors including PDGF, VEGF and TGF-b. While the theoretical explanations look promising, the clinical efficacy of PRP is conflicting, thus establishing a clear need for extensive studies. Aim: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results of the use of PRP in patients having partial rotator cuff tears. Material and Methods: Fifty patients of the age group 25–50 years who had partial cuff tears ([Formula: see text] involvement) identified on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and had continuous pain for a minimum three months were studied. They were treated with PRP therapy and the results of their function were evaluated over time. Results: Shoulder function assessment was done was UCLA and Quick DASH score. Each of these scores showed a statistically significant improvement at 6 and 12 months. The Mean UCLA score pre-procedure was [Formula: see text] and at final follow-up was [Formula: see text]. There was reduction in the average Quick DASH score from [Formula: see text] pre-therapy to [Formula: see text] at 12 months follow-up. Conclusion: After the final follow-up, most of the patients were able to resume their daily activities. The world of PRP therapy looks promising and is needed to be explored further in orthopedics as a lot of controversy over its benefits exists in the literature.