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 for rotator cuff tears;
PRP for chronic lateral ankle instability;
and a CDC report on possible HIV transmission via PRP-microneedling
Let's dive in!
Effectiveness of Platelet-rich Plasma in Partial-thickness Rotator Cuff Tears: a meta-analysis
Journal of ISAKOS // LOE: I
This study looked at whether a treatment called Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) is effective for treating a common sports injury called Partial-thickness Rotator Cuff Tears (PTRCTs). This injury often affects athletes who use overhead movements, like pitchers.
The researchers reviewed multiple studies and compared the effects of PRP with other treatments like exercises and placebo injections. They used various scoring systems to measure pain and function.
Forest plot for VAS score between Multiple Injections of PRP and placebo at Long Term Follow-up (1 Year) after treatment.
The results showed that patients treated with PRP had less pain at six weeks, three months, six months, and even a year after treatment. They also saw some improvement in function in the short term. However, this improvement in function didn't last over the long term.
The study concluded that PRP helps reduce pain for people with this injury, both in the short and long term. But its impact on improving function doesn't seem to last. Also, the studies reviewed had some differences in the way they used PRP and other treatments, so the evidence isn't clear-cut.
ACCESS HERE: https://doi.org/10.1177/23259671241227863
Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections in Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability: A Case Series
Biomedicines // LOE: IV
This study aimed to determine if Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) injections could be a safe and effective treatment for chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI), a condition that causes frequent ankle sprains and a feeling of "giving way". The study was conducted from January 2015 to February 2023 at a single outpatient clinic. Patients with previous surgical treatment, certain systemic diseases, or severe osteoarthritis were not included.
The study used various scoring systems to measure ankle function and patient satisfaction, and it also recorded the time it took for patients to return to exercise. The PRP treatment involved three injections given one week apart, with PRP administered both into the joint and the ankle ligaments.
Out of the 47 patients in the study, the researchers found significant improvements in ankle function and stability scores three months after the PRP treatment compared to before the treatment. No adverse effects were reported and the study did not extend follow up beyond this time period.
The PRP used in this study followed a published protocol that involved drawing 54ml of blood and achieving a concentration factor of ~2x, but the authors did not provide further details about the PRP's specific characteristics used in this study.
The study concluded that PRP treatment showed promising short-term results for patients with CLAI and suggested that a randomized controlled trial could be conducted to further investigate this treatment.
ACCESS HERE: https://doi.org//10.3390/biomedicines12050963
Investigation of Presumptive HIV Transmission Associated with Receipt of Platelet-Rich Plasma Microneedling Facials at a Spa Among Former Spa Clients — New Mexico, 2018–2023
CDC // LOE: N.A
While it's not a published research article, a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) presents noteworthy news that clinicians should review. It underscores the importance of maintaining sterile techniques and procedures when using biologics, as these substances carry an inherent risk of disease transmission.
The report highlights a previously undocumented method of HIV transmission, which occurred through cosmetic injection services involving contaminated blood. This risk was identified following an investigation into multiple HIV infections among individuals who had received platelet-rich plasma with microneedling (also known as "vampire facials") at an unlicensed spa in New Mexico. These individuals had no other known HIV risk factors.
The findings of this report suggest that, in the absence of other known risk factors, healthcare and public health professionals should consider cosmetic injection services as a potential route of HIV transmission. However, this would extend to all procedures where biologics are being used including MSK applications.
CDC makes the recommendation that to prevent the transmission of HIV and other bloodborne pathogens, it's crucial to enforce sufficient infection control practices at facilities offering biologics treatments. Additionally, keeping detailed client records could aid investigations of suspected transmission at these facilities.
This report serves as a stark reminder of the importance of sterile technique and proper clinical procedures when using biologics in any setting.
ACCESS HERE: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7316a3.htm
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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