Platelet-Rich Fibrin in Combination with Heat Coagulated Albumin Gel as Treatment for Lateral Epicondylitis, A Retrospective 1-Year Follow-Up Study

Author(s): Torbjörn Ogéus DC, PgD, MSc, ScA

Introduction: Lateral epicondylitis (LE), commonly known as tennis elbow, is one of the most frequent causes of elbow pain, primarily affecting the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus. It is particularly associated with repetitive overuse of the wrist extensor muscles, especially the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB). Despite the condition's name, tennis elbow is not limited to athletes, with a significant prevalence in occupations and activities involving repetitive wrist extension and forearm movements, such as manual laborers, office workers, and musicians. The condition is characterized by localized pain over the lateral epicondyle, which may radiate down the forearm and worsen with wrist extension or gripping actions. Lateral epicondylitis can be debilitating, affecting daily activities and work performance, and its management continues to be a challenge, especially in chronic cases resistant to conventional treatments.

Methods: This is a retrospective database cohort study. The clinic database was searched for patients that had undergone PRF and ALB-PRF treatment for LE between January 2019 and August 2023. 528 patients were included in the study. The analyzed data were 1-year follow-up NRS scores of multiple clinical tests and sonographic pictures before the treatment, 1 month after, 3 months after and 12 months after the treatment.

Results: Statistically significant positive changes on NRS scores (p=0,0001) were presented for all measured clinical outcomes. Sonographic positive changes were also presented; a mean decrease of focal hypoechoic changes of 3 mm (p = 0,0001).

Conclusion: In conclusion, PRF combined with ALB-PRF is an effective treatment for clinically diagnosed lateral epicondylitis. Significantly lowered NRS pain scores in clinical and orthopedic tests as well as significant positive changes in sonographic pictures 3 months after the treatment combined with 1 year-follow up data indicates significant longterm effects.

© 2016-2024, Copyrights Fortune Journals. All Rights Reserved