Effectiveness of Platelet-rich Plasma Injection as an Adjunct Treatment to Arthroscopy for TFCC Injury: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND

Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injuries can cause significant patient dysfunction. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a potential adjunctive treatment for arthroscopic TFCC repair, with some studies suggesting improved outcomes. This study aims to evaluate and compare PRP as an adjunctive treatment in arthroscopic TFCC tear repair.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study examined patients undergoing arthroscopic TFCC repair at Institut de la Main, Paris, France (December 2021-2022). Patients were split into two groups: arthroscopic repair alone (1) and repair with PRP injections (2). Physical examinations were conducted pre- and posttreatment, recording flexion, extension, and radial/ulnar deviation of the affected and contralateral wrists.

RESULTS

A total of 33 patients (20 men and 13 women) with a mean age of 30.55 ± 9.17 years were included. PRP injections were given to 16 patients with arthroscopic TFCC repair; 17 had repair only. No significant differences existed preoperatively between groups in wrist function or pain ( > 0.05). The Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score differed significantly ( = 0.004). The non-PRP group demonstrated better postoperative upper extremity function, with a mean Quick DASH score of 7.75 ± 5.91 compared with 12.64 ± 6.79 in the PRP group. No significant difference between groups was observed in the pain visual analog scale ( > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

PRP injections with TFCC repair did not improve function over repair alone. The non-PRP group showed better function (lower Quick DASH scores). Pain reduction was similar between groups. Larger trials and cost-effectiveness studies are needed to fully assess PRP's benefits in TFCC repair.