Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in chronic epicondylitis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Tendinopathy is a difficult problem to manage and can result in significant patient morbidity. Currently, the clinical use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in painful tendons is widespread but its efficacy remains controversial.

Methods/design

This study is a single-center, randomized double-blind controlled trial. Eighty patients will be allocated to have ultrasound (US)-guided needling combined with a leukocyte-depleted (that is, pure) PRP or lidocaine each alternate week for a total of two interventions. Outcome data will be collected before intervention, and at 6 weeks, 3, 6, and 12 months after intervention.

Main outcome measure

Changes in pain and activity levels, as assessed by Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH-E, Spanish version) score,

SUBMITTER: Martin JI 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4220815 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature