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01-06-2014 | Surgery Articles

Platelet-rich plasma for zone II flexor tendon repair

Authors: K. M. Kollitz, E. M. Parsons, M. S. Weaver, J. I. Huang

Published in: HAND | Issue 2/2014

Abstract

Background

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has shown promise in the treatment of tendinopathy, including rotator cuff and lateral epicondylitis. Here, we evaluate the effect of PRP on healing in a rabbit zone II flexor tendon model.

Methods

Thirty New Zealand white rabbits underwent transection and repair of the second and fourth flexor digitorum profundus. Half of the rabbits received autologous PRP intraoperatively, while the other half underwent standard four-strand tendon repair. Tendons were examined at 2, 4, and 8 weeks postoperatively. Range of motion and ultimate tensile strength were assessed on the fourth toes, while second toes underwent histologic analysis with hematoxylin and eosin, Masson Trichrome, and Picrosirius Red, for assessment of cell count, collagen content, and collagen maturity.

Results

There were no significant differences in ultimate tensile strength between treatments at 2, 4, or 8 weeks. There was a trend towards lower tensile strength in the PRP group at 2 weeks. There was no statistically significant difference in excursion or range of motion between PRP and control tendons. Cell counts at 4 weeks were statistically significantly reduced in the PRP tendons as compared to controls. No difference in collagen content or maturity was detected.

Conclusions

In contrast to previous studies, PRP did not significantly improve ultimate tensile strength. PRP-treated tendons exhibited trends towards reduced healing, including a significant reduction in cell counts as well as a smaller increase in collagen deposition over time as compared to controls. Further study is needed to determine the precise effect of PRP on intrasynovial flexor tendon repairs.

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Title: Platelet-rich plasma for zone II flexor tendon repair
Authors: K. M. Kollitz
E. M. Parsons
M. S. Weaver
J. I. Huang
Publication date: 01-06-2014
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: HAND / Issue 2/2014
Print ISSN: 1558-9447
Electronic ISSN: 1558-9455
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11552-013-9583-9

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Platelet-rich plasma for zone II flexor tendon repair

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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