2023 Annual Meeting Wrist & Elbow Access Pass-Biologics for Partial UCL Injuries

Biologics for Partial UCL Injuries

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this elbow session, Matt Sulzer from Tufts discussed biologics, focusing on PRP (platelet-rich plasma) for partial UCL injuries. Complete UCL tears require structural solutions like surgery, while partial tears may heal biologically. However, evidence for PRP efficacy is limited and inconsistent due to varying PRP types, tear locations, and patient factors. Studies show no clear benefit of PRP over physical therapy alone, and potential complications exist. Despite this, PRP is considered in high-level athletes mainly due to clinical practice rather than solid evidence. The consensus is cautious use, particularly for partial tears, with no established protocols.

Asset Caption

Matthew J. Salzler, M.D.

Keywords

PRP

partial UCL injuries

platelet-rich plasma

biologics

elbow treatment