A Study of Functional Outcome of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Infiltration in Delayed Union of Long Bones

Background: Delayed union of long-bone fractures remains a challenging problem in orthopaedic practice. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), containing concentrated platelets and growth factors, may enhance the biological process of fracture healing.
Aim: To evaluate the radiological outcome of local PRP infiltration in patients with delayed union of long-bone fractures.
Methods: This study was conducted at Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangalore. Patients aged 18–65 years with clinical and radiological evidence of delayed union five months after initial surgery were included. Patients received three local PRP infiltrations at four-week intervals. PRP was prepared on the day of the procedure and injected into the fracture cleft under local anaesthesia with C-arm guidance. Radiological healing was assessed using the Modified Radiographic Union Score (mRUST) on follow-up radiographs.
Results: At six months of follow-up, 84% of patients demonstrated satisfactory radiological union according to the Modified RUST score. Delayed union was most frequently observed in middle-third femoral shaft fractures, followed by distal tibial fractures.
Conclusion: Local PRP infiltration appears to be a promising adjunctive treatment for delayed union of long-bone fractures. Further controlled studies with larger sample sizes and validated functional outcome measures are required to confirm its effectiveness.