Objective:

To assess the efficacy of ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in promoting nerve regeneration and improving functional outcomes in patients with grade II and III median or ulnar nerve injuries in the forearm.

Approach:

• Study Design: Retrospective analysis of 183 patients with unilateral forearm median or ulnar nerve injuries.
• Groups: Patients were divided into a conventional rehabilitation group (n = 105) and a PRP group (n = 78) receiving ultrasound-guided PRP injections.
• Outcomes Measured: Primary outcomes included nerve cross-sectional diameter, cross-sectional area, and DASH scores; secondary outcomes included neurophysiological activity, motor and sensory function, and serum indicators of nerve function.

Key Findings:

• The PRP group showed a significantly larger nerve cross-sectional diameter (p = 0.021) and cross-sectional area (p = 0.004) compared to the conventional group.
• DASH scores were significantly lower in the PRP group at 2 months post-treatment (p = 0.008).
• The PRP group exhibited higher sensory conduction velocity (p = 0.042) and motor conduction velocity (p = 0.044).
• Improved MRC muscle strength and BMRC sensory function scores were observed in the PRP group at multiple follow-up points (all p < 0.05).
• Serum levels of BDNF (p = 0.006), NGF (p = 0.002), and NT-3 (p = 0.007) were significantly elevated in the PRP group.

Interpretation:

Conclusion: