Does platelet-rich plasma improve the tendon gap healing?

Abstract

Background: The tendon repairs slowly. Platelets’ alpha granules contain polypeptide growth factors that stimulate proliferation of normal connective tissue cells. The acute phase of inflammation is necessary for healing progress and fibroplasia. Platelet growth factors initiate and accelerate the inflammatory response by the host. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate if platelet-rich plasma (PRP) helps tendon gap healing. Methods: Aseptic surgery was performed on 24 mature guinea pigs in four groups to excise a 7-mm piece of the deep digital flexor (DDF) tendon of the right hind leg. In groups 1 and 2, the two ends of the severed tendon were sutured in the fascia conduit; group 2 received PRP injection into the conduit. In groups 3 and 4, the two ends of the severed tendon were sutured in a silicone tube conduit, and group 4 received PRP injection. After 42 days, the animals were euthanized and tendon samples were collected for further study. Results: The histopathological and stereological data showed that inflammation was far less in PRP-treated groups as they showed more fibroblastic proliferation. The synergistic effects of silicone tube and PRP injection showed the least inflammatory response. The diameter of collagen bundles and their volume were higher in the groups which received PRP in the silicone conduit. Conclusions: The present study found that PRP improved healing of tendon injury and silicone conduit served as good surgical technique with synergistic effect beside PRP.