| Problem: Patellar tendinosis is a common condition that affects many people. Unfortunately, healing may take a long time due to the chronic nature of the injury and limited symptoms. Treatment protocols have been used anecdotally with varying success. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections have been introduced with the theory that growth factors released by the platelets will improve healing. The autologous nature of this treatment also implies a more natural and organic pathway, along with a quick and easy point-of-care procedure. Methods: Scholarly reviewed articles were searched for the pathology, epidemiology, and treatment of tendinopathies, along with the role of PRP in healing, and clinical trials on tendons. Cell culture studies were included if the cells used were from humans. All animal trials and case studies were excluded. Results: Twelve articles on tendinopathies, patellar tendinosis, and the role of PRP in healing were included for background information. Two review articles on effects of PRP on tendons, and five PRP trials on tendons were included in this literature review. Four of the five trials showed a significant improvement in pain and function in the PRP group. The two studies on patellar tendinosis do indicate potential for PRP to be efficacious. However, there were many limitations and sample size was extremely small. Conclusion: PRP injections could be advantageous to many people suffering from tendinosis. It could give them another option in returning to their normal activities in a shorter time. However, many issues must be addressed first, such as therapeutic levels of PRP, a standard dosing protocol, and large randomized control studies, before definitively saying PRP has a significant effect. |
