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. 2015 Apr;7(2):110-4.
doi: 10.1177/1758573214567558. Epub 2015 Jan 16.

Ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma injection for distal biceps tendinopathy

Scott L Barker  1 , Simon N Bell  1 , David Connell  2 , Jennifer A Coghlan  1
Affiliations

Ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma injection for distal biceps tendinopathy

Scott L Barker et al. Shoulder Elbow. 2015 Apr.

Abstract

Background: Distal biceps tendinopathy is an uncommon cause of elbow pain. The optimum treatment for cases refractory to conservative treatment is unclear. Platelet-rich plasma has been used successfully for other tendinopathies around the elbow.

Methods: Six patients with clinical and radiological evidence of distal biceps tendinopathy underwent ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection. Clinical examination findings, visual analogue score (VAS) for pain and Mayo Elbow Performance scores were recorded.

Results: The Mayo Elbow Performance Score improved from 68.3 (range 65 to 85) (fair function) to 95 (range 85 to 100) (excellent function). The VAS at rest improved from a mean of 2.25 (range 2 to 5) pre-injection to 0. The VAS with movement improved from a mean of 7.25 (range 5 to 8) pre-injection to 1.3 (range 0 to 2). No complications were noted.

Discussion: Ultrasound-guided PRP injection appears to be a safe and effective treatment for recalcitrant cases of distal biceps tendinopathy. Further investigation with a randomized controlled trial is needed to fully assess its efficacy.

Keywords: Distal biceps; PRP injection; tendinopathy; ultrasound-guided.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Magnetic resonance imaging axial T1. Mild thickening with hyperintensity of distal biceps (red arrow).
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
Magnetic resonance imaging sagittal T1. Mild thickening with hyperintensity of distal biceps (red arrow).
Figure 3.
Figure 3.
Ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma injection into distal biceps tendon (red arrow).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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