Date of Award

2013

Degree Type

Selective Evidence-Based Medicine Review

Degree Name

Master of Science in Health Sciences - Physician Assistant

Department Chair

John Cavenagh, PhD, PA-C

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this selective EBM review is to determine whether or not platelet rich plasma therapy (PRP) improves patient outcome in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

STUDY DESIGN: Review of three primary research studies published in the English language in 2011.

DATA SOURCES: Three double blind, randomized, controlled trials analyzing the effect of augmentation of rotator cuff repair surgery with PRP therapy were found using PubMed.

OUTCOMES MEASURED: Each of the three studies measured the effectiveness of PRP therapy in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, with specific regards to pain improvement after surgery, healing time and durability of the repair. Each patient was measured using the Constant score preoperatively and at varying intervals postoperatively from three months up to two years. The Constant score measures pain, limitations of activities of daily living, range of motion and
strength.

RESULTS: Three randomized controlled trials were included in this review. The study by Randelli found that there was a significant increase in Constant scores for the PRP group at 3 months postoperative, but no significant difference was found at 6, 12 and 24 months postoperative. The study by Sánchez Márquez found no significant difference between the Constant Scores of both groups at 12 months. The study by Castricini found that there was no significant difference in
Constant score at an average of 20.2 months postoperative.

CONCLUSIONS: Based upon analysis of three RCT’s, one study found significant improvement in pain and strength at various postoperative intervals, while two additional studies found no significant improvement. The mixed nature of these results identifies the need for further investigation into the effectiveness of this treatment method.

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