Comparison of Surgically Repaired Achilles Tendon Tears Using Platelet-Rich Fibrin Matrices

Platelet-rich fibrin matrices release a natural mixture of growth factors that play central roles in the complex processes of tendon healing. HYPOTHESIS: Application of autologous platelet-rich matrices during Achilles tendon surgery may promote healing and functional recovery. STUDY DESIGN: Case-control study and descriptive laboratory study; Level of evidence, 3.

Twelve athletes underwent open suture repair after complete Achilles tendon tear. Open suture repair in conjunction with a preparation rich in growth factors (PRGF) was performed in 6 athletes and retrospectively compared with a matched group that followed conventional surgical procedure. The outcomes were evaluated on the basis of range of motion, functional recovery, and complications. Achilles tendons were examined by ultrasound at 50 +/- 11 months in retrospective controls and 32 +/- 10 months in the PRGF group. In the laboratory portion of the study, PRGF treatment was characterized by the number of platelets and concentration of insulin (IGF-I), transformed (TGF-beta1), platelet-derived (PDGF-AB), vascular endothelial (VEGF), hepatocyte (HGF), and epidermal (EGF) growth factors in patients affected by musculoskeletal traumatic injuries.