Role of Platelets Rich Plasma (PRP) on the Outcome of Zone II Flexor Tendon Repair and Proximal Interphalangeal Joint (PIPJ) Range of Motion

Abstract

Background Flexor tendon injuries are a commonly occurring injury presenting to hand surgeons. Using PRP to augment tendon healing has been advocated only recently. Few studies discussed the effect of injection of PRP in tendon healing after tendon repair in large joints as regard functional outcome and range of motion (e.g. Achilles tendon and rotator cuff) Objective To study the effect of combination of PRP injection with physiotherapy on gliding and range of motion improvement after zone II flexor tendon repair. Patients and Methods prospective interventional controlled clinical study preformed on 40 patients with zone II flexor tendon injury. Patients were divided into two groups, group I (interventional group) PRP was injected around the tendon at the site of repair after one and six weeks of repair and patients received physiotherapy according to our unit protocol. In group II (control group) patients received physiotherapy only. Both groups were evaluated at six and twelve weeks regarding the range of motion according to Buck-Gramko II criteria. Results Based on the Buck-Gramcko II criteria, the overall results ranged between fair and good in both groups after six weeks of repair, the score ranged between 7-16 (mean= 11.5) in group I and 6-14 (mean= 10) in group II, There was no statistical difference between the two groups (P = 0.46).After 12 weeks of repair, the overall results ranged between good and excellent in both groups, the score ranged between 11-17 (mean= 14) in group I and 9-16 (mean=12.5) in group II. There was no statistical difference between the two groups (p = 0.207). Conclusion PRP injection had no statistical significant effect of on the gliding after flexor tendon repair at zone II.