Summary

This retrospective review found that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection for plantar plate injuries resulted in significant improvements in clinical outcomes and a 100% return to sport rate at a mean of 5.3 weeks, with a 7.7% failure rate, suggesting PRP is an effective treatment, though further studies with longer follow-up are needed.

Abstract

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcomes following the use of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) For Plantar Plate Injuries.

Methods

Retrospective chart review identified 13 patients who underwent a PRP injection for the treatment of plantar plate injuries. Pre-operative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were obtained and the grade of the plantar plate injury was recorded. Clinical outcomes assessed included: pre- and post-operative foot and ankle outcome score (FAOS), visual analog scale (VAS), complications, failures, secondary surgical procedures, and return to sport data.

Results

Thirteen patients with a mean follow-up time of 22.1±10.4 months were included. There were 6 patients that were grade 1, 4 patients were grade 2 and 3 patients were grade 3. There was a statistically significant improvement in both FAOS (53.1 -> 86.7) and VAS scores (4.5 -> 1.1) following injection of PRP to the plantar plate. No complications were observed. There was 1 failure, which underwent a plantar condylectomy at 8.1 weeks following PRP injection. Ten patients played sport pre-operatively, all of which (100%) returned to sport at a mean time of 5.3 weeks following PRP injection.

Discussion And Conclusion

This retrospective review demonstrated improvement clinical and functional outcomes following injection of PRP for plantar plate injuries. There was a 100% return to sport rate at a mean time of 5.3 weeks. The failure rate was 7.7%. Further comparative studies with longer follow-up are warranted to determine the precise role of PRP for the management of plantar plate injuries.