Biologics and Cell-Based Treatments for Upper Extremity Injuries

Many orthopaedic conditions of the upper extremity can have a protracted course of conservative management during which the patient gains may be unpredictable. More specifically, lateral epicondylitis, medial epicondylitis, and partial ulnar collateral ligament tears can be the cause of debilitating pain that may not have durable long-term relief without a surgical intervention. Recent advances have led to an expanded role of biologics in the treatment of orthopaedic conditions. Some of the developing modalities include blood-derived products, marrow-derived products, and stem cells. Currently, most of the available literature focuses on the use of platelet-rich plasma. Although there is still much research that needs to be done, some of the learn studies suggest a benefit from the use of platelet-rich plasma, especially in regards to pain, to address these conditions.