Platelet-Rich Plasma Use in Tendon Injuries
Encouraging news for the use of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in tendon injuries. A recent journal article (J Orthop Res. 2007 Feb;25(2):230-40) examined gene expression patterns and the collagen content of equine digital flexor tendon explants cultured in media consisting of PRP and other blood products. They found that the tendons cultured in 100% PRP showed enhanced gene expression for several collagen and cartilage molecules. The findings support further study of PRP as a treatment for tendonitis.
Here’s a link to the article’s abstract. thehorse.com has several news stories on PRP: Platelet-Rich Plasma for Tendon and Ligament Problems, Platelet-Rich Plasma Treats Tendon and Ligament Problems.

