Authors
Abstract
Background: The use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) as an adjuvant to tissue repair is gaining favour in orthopaedic surgery. Tunnel widening after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a recognised phenomenon that could compromise revision surgery. The purpose of this study was to determine whether PRP might prevent tunnel widening in ACL reconstruction. Methods: In a randomized clinical study, during one year patients undergoing ACL reconstruction using a hamstring graft were randomly allocated either to have PRP introduced into the tunnels (group 1) peri-operatively or not (group 2). Each group comprised 25 patients. CT scanning of the knees was carried out on the day after surgery and at three months post-operatively and the width of the tunnels was measured. Patients were also evaluated clinically at three months, when laxity was also measured. Results: Three months post-operatively, all patients were pain-free with stable knees, a negative Lachman test and a good range of movement. Arthrometric results had improved significantly in both groups (p < /i>≥.05). Conclusions: We conclude that PRP has no significant effect in preventing tunnel widening after ACL reconstruction.
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