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Intradiscal platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for discogenic low back pain: an update

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Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this article is to provide an overview of clinical and translational research on intradiscal platelet-rich plasma (PRP) as a minimally invasive treatment for discogenic low back pain.

Methods

A literature review of in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies was performed.

Results

There is strong in vitro evidence that supports the use of intradiscal PRP for discogenic low back pain. There are also promising findings in select preclinical animal studies. A clinical study of 29 participants who underwent intradiscal PRP injections for discogenic low back pain found statistically and clinically significant improvements in pain and function through two years of follow-up.

Conclusions

Intradiscal PRP is a safe and a possibly effective treatment for discogenic low back pain. Future studies are warranted to determine the best candidates for this treatment, what the optimal injectate is and what relationships exist between patient-reported outcomes and radiological findings.

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Acknowledgments

The platelet-rich plasma preparation kits used in the clinical study included in this review were donated by Harvest Technologies.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Physiatry, Hospital for Special Surgery, 429 E 75th Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY, 10021, USA

    Michael Monfett, Julian Harrison, Kwadwo Boachie-Adjei & Gregory Lutz

Authors
  1. Michael Monfett
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  2. Julian Harrison
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  3. Kwadwo Boachie-Adjei
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  4. Gregory Lutz
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Gregory Lutz.

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Conflict of interest

Dr. Gregory Lutz is the Chief Medical Advisor for Biorestorative Therapies, LLC. The authors have no other financial interests to disclose.

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Monfett, M., Harrison, J., Boachie-Adjei, K. et al. Intradiscal platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections for discogenic low back pain: an update. International Orthopaedics (SICOT) 40, 1321–1328 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-016-3178-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00264-016-3178-3

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