title: Platelet-rich plasma and the upper extremity.
abstract: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a fraction of whole blood containing powerful growth factors and cytokines. Preclinical studies suggest PRP may be useful for tendon repair or regeneration. Clinical investigations have focused on the treatment of chronic lateral epicondylar tendinopathy and rotator cuff pathology. Multiple controlled studies support the use of PRP for chronic tennis elbow. Rotator cuff studies, however, have produced conflicting results based on PRP formulation, surgical technique, and size of tendon tear. This article explores the scientific rational for using PRP, its various formulations, and the emerging clinical data. Future potential applications are also explored.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Menlo Medical Clinic, Stanford University Medical Center, 1300 Crane Street, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA. am@totaltendon.com
authors.forename: Allan
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Mishra
authors.forename: Pietro
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Randelli
authors.forename: Cameron
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Barr
authors.forename: Tazio
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Talamonti
authors.forename: Vincenza
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Ragone
authors.forename: Paolo
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Cabitza
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D053657:Platelet-Rich Plasma / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology; D000070636:Rotator Cuff Injuries; D012421:Rupture; D013708:Tendon Injuries / Q000628:therapy; D013716:Tennis Elbow / Q000628:therapy*; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000502:physiology