Comparision of platelet-rich plasma and steroid injection in the treatment of chronic lateral epicondylitis

Aim. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is a biologi cal treatment which stimulates the recovery response by the expression of growth fac tors from activated thrombocytes. This study aimed to compare the effects of PRP and steroid injections in patients diagnosed with and being followed-up for chronic lateral epi condylitis. Methods. This prospective study included 60 patients diagnosed with and being followed up for chronic lateral epicondylitis. In the PRP group (N.=3O), blood taken from the pa tients was centrifuged to separate PRP, which was then activated by calcium chloride and a single dose injection was applied using the peppering technique. In the steroid group (N.=3O) a single dose methylprednisolone with local anesthetic injection was applied using the peppering technique. Clinical evaluation was made by the Mayo elbow score and a visual analogue scale (VAS). Results. No major complications were seen in any patient. Both groups Mayo elbow score was increased and VAS score was decreased and no statistically significant difference was detected between the groups at six weeks. Statistically significant better results in the Mayo elbow score and VAS score was deter mined in PRP group than steroid group at six months. Conclusion. In the treatment of chronic lateral epicondylitis, although in the early stages the application of PRP showed similar effects to steroid injection, in the longer term PRP was more effective than steroid injection. PRP reduced pain and increased function in the treatment of chronic lateral epicondylitis. The application of PRP is à safe and effective method. Further studies are required to support the findings of this study.