Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections in Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Regenerative Medicine
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is explored for joint pathologies, but its efficacy in joint instability, particularly chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI), requires further investigation.
• Limited evidence exists on PRP's effectiveness for ligamentous injuries and chronic ankle instability.
• Understanding PRP's role in improving joint function and stability is crucial for developing novel treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for patients suffering from chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI).
• To assess clinical and functional outcomes following PRP therapy in a cohort of CLAI patients.
• To determine the feasibility of conducting a randomized controlled trial for PRP in CLAI.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study at a single outpatient clinic from January 2015 to February 2023.
• Included 47 patients with CLAI, excluding those with prior surgery, hyperlaxity, systemic diseases, or significant osteoarthritis.
• Assessed outcomes using Karlsson score, CAIT, Good's grading, patient satisfaction, and return-to-exercise time after three PRP injections (intra-articular and ligamentous) at 7-day intervals.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements observed in both Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) and Karlsson scores at 3 months post-intervention (p < 0.000).
• Mean follow-up was 17.94 ± 3.25 weeks, with patients reporting positive subjective satisfaction.
• No adverse effects were reported during the short-term follow-up period.

Conclusions:

• PRP injections demonstrated successful short-term functional and clinical outcomes in patients with CLAI.
• The treatment was safe, with no adverse events noted.
• The findings support the potential of PRP as a therapeutic option for CLAI and suggest the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial.