The role of injectable porcine type I collagen (Tropocollagen) in chronic musculoskeletal disorders

The aim of this narrative review is to present current data on the use of porcine type I collagen (tropocollagen) injections in the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal disorders, with particular emphasis on its clinical application and safety profile. A search was conducted in the Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) databases. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 14 publications were identified. The available studies cover the use of collagen administered intra-articularly, periarticularly, and via mesotherapy. The analyzed publications reported improvements in clinical symptoms and function in various chronic musculoskeletal conditions, accompanied by a favorable safety profile. However, it should be emphasized that the available clinical evidence is limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneity in treatment protocols, and a relatively short follow-up period. Injectable porcine type I collagen is a promising adjunctive treatment for chronic musculoskeletal disorders; however, further, well-designed randomized clinical trials with larger patient cohorts and longer follow-up periods are necessary.