Role of Ultrasound Guided Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection in Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis

Background

Lateral epicondylitis is referred to a degenerative disorder that affects the common extensor tendon (CET) where it attaches to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus. Nowadays, one of minimally invasive interventions is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection that had been explored in some controlled clinical studies to show its effectiveness in treating lateral epicondylitis through inducing inflammation rather than suppressing it.

Objectives

The aim of our study was to investigate the effectiveness of ultrasound guided platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection in treating chronic lateral epicondylitis in addition to identifying the potential sonographic morphological changes in the common extensor tendon (CET) after PRP injection.

Results

Statistical analysis showed high significant improvement in all ultrasound findings of common extensor tendon (CET) including echotexture, thickness, cross section, partial tear and calcification in majority of patients.

Conclusion

We concluded that US-guided platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection for treatment of lateral epicondylitis was a safe, minimally invasive and effective procedure in improving the sonographic and pathological changes of common extensor tendon (CET).