Efficacy of Autologous Intra-articular Platelet Rich Plasma Injection as a Biological Adjuvant in Early Primary Osteoarthrosis Knee—A Prospective Study

Abstract

Introduction Classical characteristics of osteoarthrosis are reduction or loss of articular cartilage, new bone formation, accompanied by synovial proliferation resulting in pain, loss of joint function, and disability. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) has been used to provide stimulus for local regeneration and healing. The present study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the clinical outcome and efficacy of injecting PRP intra-articularly in early primary osterarthrosis knee. Objective Prospective study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the clinical outcome of efficacy of injection of PRP in early primary osteoarthrosis knee with respect to pain, stiffness, function and quality of life, in short-term follow-up. Attempt was made to standardize protocol and formulate PRP. Materials and Methods Patients were divided into two groups: one treated with two autologous PRP injections at 2 weeks interval and second received symptomatic treatment with physiotherapy. Patients were prospectively evaluated at baseline and then at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months of follow-up using the visual analog scale (VAS) score, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) score, and range of movements. Results There was reduction in VAS score in group 1 patients compared with group 2 patients with the p-value <0.0001 which was highly significant. There was a significant improvement in WOMAC score at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months in group 1 compared with group 2 patients. Conclusion Autologous PRP in osteoarthrosis of knee has emerged as a simple technique, sensitive procedure, and cost-effective treatment option. Administration of intra-articular PRP injections reduced the VAS score significantly and also a significant improvement in the WOMAC score was observed in patients who were treated with PRP injection. The two doses of injection of PRP were found to give adequate relief in short term of 6 months and further long-term studies are required.