Our Summary

This research paper is about an experiment that was done on rabbits to understand the effects of using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and ozone therapy (a type of oxygen therapy) on healing a specific type of shoulder injury (a supraspinatus tendon tear).

The rabbits were divided into four groups, each treated differently: one group just had the injury repaired, one had the injury repaired and PRP added, another had the injury repaired and ozone added, and the last one had the injury repaired and both PRP and ozone added.

The results showed that the groups where either PRP, ozone, or both were added had stronger healing than the group where only the injury was repaired. The group with both PRP and ozone had the strongest healing. The groups with ozone showed a better continuity and orientation of collagen fibers, which are crucial for healing.

Therefore, the study suggests that using a combination of PRP and ozone therapy can help improve the healing of this type of shoulder injury. However, the researchers note that more studies are needed to confirm these findings.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the experiment conducted on rabbits?
  2. How did the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and ozone therapy affect the healing of the supraspinatus tendon tear?
  3. Does the study conclusively prove that a combination of PRP and ozone therapy is the best method for healing this type of shoulder injury?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing tendon repair to consider discussing the possibility of using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and ozone therapy with them as it could potentially enhance the healing process. It’s important to have this conversation with your healthcare provider to determine if this type of treatment is appropriate for your specific injury and overall health. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and treatment plan to ensure the best outcome for your tendon repair.

Suitable For

Patients who may benefit from tendon repair include those with tendon tears, tendonitis, chronic tendon injuries, or tendon injuries that have not healed properly with conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. Additionally, patients who have undergone previous tendon repair surgeries that have not been successful may also be recommended for tendon repair.

Timeline

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after tendon repair may include:

Before tendon repair:

  1. Patient experiences pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the affected area.
  2. Patient undergoes imaging tests to diagnose the tendon tear and determine the extent of the injury.
  3. Patient discusses treatment options with their healthcare provider and decides to undergo tendon repair surgery.

After tendon repair:

  1. Patient undergoes tendon repair surgery to reattach the torn tendon to the bone.
  2. Patient may undergo physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected area.
  3. Patient may experience pain and discomfort during the initial recovery period.
  4. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and gradually increases their level of physical activity.
  5. Patient undergoes follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor the healing process and adjust treatment as needed.

In the case of the study on rabbits using PRP and ozone therapy for a supraspinatus tendon tear, the timeline may include:

  1. Rabbits are divided into four groups and undergo tendon repair surgery with different treatments added (PRP, ozone, both PRP and ozone, or no additional treatment).
  2. Rabbits in the PRP and ozone groups show stronger healing compared to the group with no additional treatment.
  3. Rabbits in the ozone groups demonstrate improved continuity and orientation of collagen fibers, which are important for healing.
  4. The study suggests that a combination of PRP and ozone therapy may enhance the healing of a supraspinatus tendon tear, but further research is needed to confirm these findings.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about tendon repair, specifically in relation to the use of PRP and ozone therapy, may include:

  1. What are the potential benefits of using PRP and ozone therapy for tendon repair compared to traditional methods?
  2. Are there any risks or side effects associated with PRP and ozone therapy for tendon repair?
  3. How long does it typically take for the healing process to occur when using PRP and ozone therapy?
  4. What is the success rate of using PRP and ozone therapy for tendon repair in patients with similar injuries?
  5. Are there any specific criteria or factors that make a patient a good candidate for PRP and ozone therapy for tendon repair?
  6. How many treatments of PRP and ozone therapy are typically required for optimal healing of a tendon injury?
  7. Are there any specific post-treatment care or rehabilitation protocols that should be followed after undergoing PRP and ozone therapy for tendon repair?
  8. What is the cost associated with PRP and ozone therapy for tendon repair, and is it covered by insurance?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options available for tendon repair that should be considered?
  10. Can you provide more information or resources for further reading on the use of PRP and ozone therapy for tendon repair?

Reference

Authors: Gurger M, Once G, Yilmaz E, Demir S, Calik I, Say Y, Kavakli A, Key S, Gurbuz MU, Bingollu O. Journal: J Orthop Surg Res. 2021 Mar 19;16(1):202. doi: 10.1186/s13018-021-02320-w. PMID: 33740995