Platelet-rich plasma versus corticosteroid injection for recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis: clinical and ultrasonographic evaluation

Purpose.To evaluate the clinical and ultrasonographic changes in the morphology and vascularity of the common extensor tendon after injecting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or corticosteroid (CS) for recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis (LE).Methods.30 patients aged 18 to 60 years with recalcitrant (>6 months) LE not responsive to oral medication or non-invasive treatment were randomised to receive PRP (n=15) or CS (n=15) injection. Patients were assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Scale (DASH) score, Oxford Elbow Score, modified Mayo Clinic performance index for the elbow (modified Mayo score), and hand grip strength. Ultrasonography was performed by a musculoskeletal ultrasonologist to evaluate for tear at the common extensor origin, oedema at the common extensor origin, cortical erosion, probe-induced tenderness, and thickness of the tendon.Results.The VAS for pain, DASH score, Oxford Elbow Score, modified Mayo score, and hand grip strength all ...