A Single Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection for Chronic Midsubstance Achilles Tendinopathy: A Retrospective Preliminary Analysis. Issue 5 (October 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Murawski, Christopher D.; Smyth, Niall A.; Newman, Hunter; Kennedy, John G.
• Is Part Of: Foot & ankle specialist. Volume 7:Issue 5(2014)
• Page Start: 372
• Page End: 376
• Publication Date: 2014-10
• Subjects: Achilles tendonitis -- heel -- rearfoot -- ankle -- sports injuries -- sports podiatry; Podiatry -- Periodicals; Orthopedics -- Periodicals; Foot -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Foot -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Ankle -- Surgery -- Periodicals; 617.585
• DOI: 10.1177/1938640014532129
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1938-6400

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a series of patients undergoing a single platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection for the treatment of chronic midsubstance Achilles tendinopathy, in whom conservative treatment had failed. Thirty-two patients underwent a single PRP injection for the treatment of chronic midsubstance Achilles tendinopathy and were evaluated at a 6-month final follow-up using the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score and Short Form 12 general health questionnaire. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed on all patients prior to and 6 months after injection. Twenty-five of 32 patients (78%) reported that they were asymptomatic at the 6-month follow-up visit and were able to participate in their respective sports and daily activities. The remaining 7 patients (22%) who reported symptoms that did not improve after 6 months ultimately required surgery. Four patients went on to have an Achilles tendoscopy, while the other 3 had an open debridement via a tendon splitting approach. A retrospective evaluation of patients receiving a single PRP injection for chronic midsubstance Achilles tendinopathy revealed that 78% had experienced clinical improvement and had avoided surgical intervention at 6-month follow-up. Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Retrospective case series