DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.cc.24.00047 ISSN: 2160-3251
Treatment of Elbow Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury in a 9-Year-Old Acrobatic Dancer Using Platelet-Rich Plasma
Henok Haile, Kristin Whitney, Andrea BauerCase:
We present the case of a 9-year-old female acrobatic dancer who sustained left elbow dislocation during a routine. Advanced imaging revealed proximal ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tear. A significant limitation in elbow range of motion (ROM) after initial treatment with an elbow brace and physical therapy prompted a dynamic bedside ultrasound (US) test, which demonstrated persistent instability of the UCL. US-guided injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to the UCL was performed. After PRP treatment, the patient regained complete elbow ROM and a full return to her activity.
Conclusion:
Platelet-rich plasma can be used as a nonoperative treatment of pediatric elbow UCL injuries.