Treatment of a fractured humerus and partially torn supraspinatus tendon in a professional boxer with liquid platelet-rich fibrin and heat-coagulated albumin gel: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Fractures with delayed healing can be a serious complication, especially for athletes depending on quick return to sports. To our knowledge, no cases of increased healing of delayed union fractures with autologous biomedical interventions have been reported. Case presentation A 33-year-old Swedish professional boxer with a fractured humerus with a delayed union and a partially torn supraspinatus tendon was treated with injections of liquid platelet-rich fibrin and heat-coagulated albumin gel. He recovered almost completely from both injuries in only 1 month and could return to professional boxing in 3 months. Conclusion This case raises the hypothesis that liquid platelet-rich fibrin and heat-coagulated albumin gel may be an effective, minimally invasive intervention in fractures with a delayed union. Further research is required to test this theory.

Keywords

• Humerus fracture
• Fracture healing
• Delayed union
• Supraspinatus
• Tendon
• PRF