PRGF for High Ankle Sprain in Elite Athletes: RCT
Laver L · KSSTA (2015)
DOI: 10.1007/s00167-014-3119-xThis RCT tested PRGF (Plasma Rich in Growth Factors, a LP-PRP preparation) versus standard rehabilitation for high ankle sprains (syndesmosis injuries) in 16 elite athletes. Despite the very small sample, the PRP group returned to play 33% faster (40.8 vs 59.6 days). This is one of the few positive RCTs for PRP in acute ligament injury and is particularly notable because syndesmosis injuries are notoriously slow to heal with conventional treatment.
Clinical Relevance
While the small sample warrants caution, the clinical significance of nearly 20 fewer days of recovery for elite athletes is substantial. PRGF for syndesmosis sprains is a reasonable consideration in high-level athletes where accelerated return to play has major competitive and financial implications.
Key Takeaways
- Return to play 33% faster with PRP (40.8 vs 59.6 days, p<0.05)
- High ankle sprains are typically slow-healing injuries where accelerating recovery is highly valuable
- Very small sample (n=16) limits generalizability
- Used PRGF (LP-PRP) with ultrasound-guided, 3 weekly injections
- One of the only positive acute ligament injury RCTs
Key Findings
RTP 33% faster (40.8 vs 59.6 days, p<0.05). Rare positive RCT for acute ligament injury.
Clinical Context
Study Design
RCT
Condition
High Ankle Sprain (Syndesmosis)
Sample Size
16 patients
Control Group
Standard rehabilitation
Primary Outcome
Return to Play (days)
PRP Protocol & Intervention
Preparation System
BTI PRGF-Endoret
Leukocyte Status
LP-PRP (PRGF)
Activation Method
Calcium chloride
Injection Frequency
3 injection(s)
Injection Interval
Weekly
Guidance Method
Ultrasound-guided