Welcome to the Regenerative Research Roundup, where we look through recently published research and bring you the best of the best in a quick-to-read digest.
This month, we cover:
PRP after ACL reconstruction;
PRP for Plantar Fascitiis;
Injection protocol for PRP for KOA;
and a narrative review of orthobiologics in sports medicine
Let's dive in!
Intra-Articular Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Randomized Clinical Trial
JAMA // LOE: I
A recent study conducted at a national medical center in China explored whether injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a treatment thought to hasten healing, improve outcomes after knee surgery specifically for ACL reconstructions.
The study, which included 120 participants between the ages of 16 and 45, investigated if PRP injections post-surgery could enhance knee function and alleviate symptoms when compared to not using such injections. Participants were randomly assigned to either receive three PRP injections at monthly intervals after surgery or no injections at all - the PRP was 4.5x baseline.
At the conclusion of the study, researchers found that the improvements in knee function and symptom relief were not significantly different between the group that received PRP injections and the one that did not. Minor differences were noted in activities like sports at the six-month point, but overall, the injections did not result in markedly better outcomes. Additionally, some participants reported temporary pain and swelling at the injection site.
ACCESS HERE: https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.10134
Comparison of Platelet-Rich Plasma and Corticosteroid Injections for Chronic Plantar Fasciitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Cureus // LOE: I
A study examining 70 patients with chronic plantar fasciitis compared the effectiveness of two treatments: autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and corticosteroid injections.
Both groups were assessed for pain using the visual analog scale (VAS) and for foot function using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score at various intervals up to six months post-injection.
Initially, both groups had similar pain and function scores. However, over time, those treated with PRP showed significantly better improvement in both pain and function compared to the corticosteroid group. At one, three, and six months, the PRP recipients demonstrated not only less pain but also greater functional capabilities.
These results suggest that PRP injections offer more effective long-term relief and functional benefit for persistent plantar fascitis than corticosteroid injections, making it a viable option particularly for those who do not respond to standard treatments.
ACCESS HERE: https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.59656
The varying clinical effectiveness of single, three and five intraarticular injections of platelet-rich plasma in knee osteoarthritis
Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research // LOE: l
In a study examining the impact of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections on knee osteoarthritis, 120 patients were divided to receive one, three, or five PRP injections, each spaced a week apart. Their pain and physical function were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMA C) over a year.
Significant improvements were noted in all groups, but notably, those receiving three or five injections experienced better outcomes than those receiving a single injection. However, there was no marked difference in efficacy between three and five injections, suggesting that three injections might be sufficient.
The study highlighted that each treatment administered approximately 4 billion platelets. It wasn't until the cumulative platelet dose reached around 10 billion through multiple injections that optimal results were observed. This suggests that a single PRP injection delivering a dose exceeding 10 billion platelets might offer an ideal balance between efficacy and treatment efficiency, potentially making multiple injections unnecessary. This has already been confirmed in recent literature (Bansal, 2022).
ACCESS HERE: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-024-04736-6
Biologics Approaches – When, Why, and How?
Operative Techniques in Sports Medicine
This article serves as an informative guide and important resource for aspiring practitioners of orthobiologics, particularly those in the United States. It explores the use of orthobiologics in treating various sports medicine pathologies by summarizing the current therapeutic options available, such as viscosupplementation, platelet-rich plasma, bone marrow aspirate concentration, and mesenchymal stem cells derived from adipose and amniotic sources.
The narrative emphasizes the importance of understanding clinical indications, supported evidence, risks, and benefits of each treatment option. Moreover, it underscores the necessity of maintaining a practice that adheres to safety, cost-efficiency, resource consciousness, and regulatory guidelines.
This comprehensive overview not only equips practitioners with a foundational knowledge of how and when to integrate orthobiologics into clinical practice but also connects them with the latest literature, ensuring they stay updated on advancements and best practices in the field.
ACCESS HERE: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.otsm.2024.151082
If you have any questions or comments regarding the above research, or are wondering how you can apply it to your regenerative practice, please leave a comment below or shoot me an email at cdowns@mdbiologix.com
Cheers!
Connor
This blog post provides general information to help the reader better understand regenerative medicine, musculoskeletal health, and any related subjects. The views and opinions expressed in this post are those of the author and may not reflect the views and opinions of MDBiologix. All content provided in this blog, website, or any linked materials, including text, graphics, images, patient profiles, outcomes, and information, are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please always consult with a professional and certified healthcare provider to discuss if any treatment is right for you.
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