PRP and Metaplasia in repaired tendon

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate effects of PRP injection in strengthening of repaired tendon. Methods: This study was conducted in animal lab of our hospital on 20 rats. The animals were divided into two groups randomly and distal third of left Achillis tendons were cut and then repaired with Vicryl 2/0. The first group was control group and in the second group 0.5 cc of PRP was injected into the repair site. After 4 weeks all of the rats were executed and 70% of tendons were sent randomly for tensilometry and the force that required to rupture the tendons were measured. In next stage the tendons were sent for pathological exam. Results: The force that was needed to rupture the tendon were not significantly different in the two groups. Neovascularization were more prevalent in PRP group but not statistically significant. There were two cases of Cartilage Metaplasia in PRP group. Conclusion: It seems that using PRP has no effect on strengthening the tendons repair and may have some adverse effects. It usage needs further studies to evaluate their probable adverse side effects