Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections in the Treatment of Chronic Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: A Randomized Controlled Trial with 1-Year Follow-up
Kesikburun S · The American Journal of Sports Medicine (2013)
DOI: 10.1177/0363546513496542This RCT tested a single ultrasound-guided PRP injection versus saline placebo in 40 patients with chronic rotator cuff tendinopathy (non-surgical). SPADI shoulder pain and disability scores were measured through 12 months. No significant differences were found between PRP and placebo at any timepoint, making this a key negative study for non-operative PRP use in rotator cuff disease.
Clinical Relevance
Important distinction: PRP injections ALONE for rotator cuff tendinopathy lack evidence, but PRP applied DURING surgical repair shows benefit. Clinicians should not conflate non-operative and operative PRP applications for the rotator cuff.
Key Takeaways
- No significant PRP benefit for rotator cuff tendinopathy through 12 months
- Placebo-controlled (saline), adding rigor
- Small sample (n=40) but well-designed
- Single injection may be insufficient for rotator cuff pathology
- Contrasts with the surgical augmentation literature where PRP shows benefit
Key Findings
A single PRP injection was not more effective than placebo for chronic rotator cuff tendinopathy at any time point through 12 months.
Clinical Context
Study Design
Randomized Controlled Trial
Condition
Chronic Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Sample Size
40 patients
Follow-up
12 months
Control Group
Saline Placebo
Primary Outcome
WORC, SPADI, VAS
PRP Protocol & Intervention
Injection Frequency
1 injection(s)