MRI Graft Remodelling After ACLR With/Without PRP
Seijas R · KSSTA (2013)
DOI: 10.1007/s00167-013-2426-6This RCT evaluated the effect of intraoperative LP-PRP (PRGF) injection on patellar tendon graft remodelling after ACL reconstruction using serial MRI at 4, 6, and 12 months. The PRP group showed more advanced graft signal changes (diffuse hyperintensity indicating vascularization and remodelling) at all timepoints. However, clinical outcome scores (IKDC, Lysholm) showed no significant differences, creating a disconnect between imaging and clinical outcomes.
Clinical Relevance
Illustrates a common theme in PRP research: biological/structural changes on imaging do not always produce detectable clinical benefit. Clinicians should not use MRI improvements alone to justify PRP use; patient-reported outcomes remain the gold standard.
Key Takeaways
- PRP accelerated MRI graft remodelling at 4, 6, and 12 months
- More diffuse hyperintensity (advanced ligamentisation) in PRP group
- Clinical scores (IKDC, Lysholm) showed NO significant difference
- Imaging improvement does not necessarily translate to clinical benefit
- Used PRGF (LP-PRP) system with 8mL injection volume
Key Findings
Faster graft remodelling on MRI but NO clinical score differences (IKDC, Lysholm).
Clinical Context
Study Design
RCT
Condition
ACLR BTB Graft
Sample Size
98 patients
Follow-up
12 months
Control Group
Standard ACLR
Primary Outcome
MRI Signal Intensity
PRP Protocol & Intervention
Preparation System
PRGF
Leukocyte Status
LP-PRP
Injection Volume
8 mL
Injection Frequency
1 injection(s)
Guidance Method
Intraoperative