Platelet-rich Plasma Injections for Chronic Lateral Epicondylosis: A Pilot Study

Key DFM Personnel

John Wilson, MD - Principal Investigator
David Rabago, MD - Co-PI
Jessica Belling - Project Coordinator

Funding

University of Wisconsin, Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation

Summary

Platelets, through the release of growth factors, are essential to the normal healing of common, chronic tendon injuries such as lateral epicondylosis (tennis elbow). No definitive therapy exists for chronic tennis elbow, though limited research suggests that platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections may stimulate tendon healing by delivering a concentrated dose of growth factors directly to the injury. The project is a 32 week pilot study in which 10 patients with severe tennis elbow receive PRP injections and are assessed using state of the art clinical, biomechanical and radiological measures. Results from this study will be presented at a national scientific meeting, published in a peer reviewed journal, and provide pilot data for a larger extra-mural NIH R01 grant.

Goals

The goal of this multi-disciplinary pilot study is to determine whether platelet rich plasma injections for chronic tennis elbow result in improved pain, function, and tissue healing.

Methodology

This pilot study will assess clinical, biomechanical, and imaging outcomes in adults with moderate-to-severe chronic tennis elbow. Participants will receive the study intervention during the initial 8 weeks and will be followed for 24 weeks post-intervention for a total of 32 weeks. During the intervention period (0-8 weeks), PRP subjects will receive a single PRP injection of autologous platelet concentrate. Subjects will be recruited through direct clinic recruitment: clinicians at the UW Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine and Family Medicine clinics will provide interested patients with the study information and encourage them to contact the study coordinator in clinic or by phone.