Abstract
Background Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has local anti-inflammatory actions, which is being used
as a treatment in various tendinopathies.
Purpose The aim of the study is to compare the clinical results of PRP injection and corticosteroid
injection in the management of de Quervain's tenosynovitis (DQTSV).
Patients and Methods In this prospective study, 60 patients of DQTSV, fulfilling the predefined inclusion
and exclusion criteria, were randomised into two groups. In group 1 (n = 30), patients received a single injection of autologous PRP and in group 2 (n = 30) they received a single injection of corticosteroid (methylprednisolone). All
patients were followed up at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year for evaluation
by Finkelstein test, visual analogue scale (VAS), DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder
and Hand) score, and Modified Mayo Wrist score (MMWS).
Results In both the groups improvement occurred in Finkelstein test, VAS score, DASH score,
and MMWS which were found to be statistically significant at all points of follow-ups
when compared to the pre-intervention values. Comparison of scores between the two
groups did not show any statistical significance. No complications were reported in
PRP group. Statistically significant complications (p -value = 0.026) like subcutaneous fat atrophy, depigmentation, and temporary increase
in pain were seen in eight patients in the corticosteroid group with an overall complication
rate of 26.67%.
Conclusion Both the modalities are equally effective in the management of DQTSV remittance.
PRP is equally effective as corticosteroid in reducing symptoms of first dorsal compartment
stenosing tenosynovitis. PRP may have a lower complication profile, however, this
benefit should be weighed against the slight increase in cost and time of PRP preparation
and injection.
Level of Evidence Level 2, prospective comparative study.
Keywords de Quervain's tenosynovitis - PRP - corticosteroid - Finkelstein test - DASH - Modified
Mayo wrist score
