Single vs triple injections of platelet-rich plasma in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a retrospective cohort study of 80 patients

Introduction

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disorder that significantly impairs quality of life. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a promising treatment option for managing symptoms of knee osteoarthritis.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to compare the effects of triple versus single PRP injections on pain and quality of life in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.

Methods

The files of 40 patients who received a single dose of PRP and 40 patients who received three doses of PRP for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis were retrospectively examined. Patients had been evaluated before the treatment and at their 6 month follow up with a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) Osteoarthritis Index.

Results

At the 6-month examinations, there was a statistically significant decrease in the WOMAC total (single, from 64.7 ± 13.2 to 54.4 ± 17.2, P = .001; triple, from 67.0 ± 14.7 to 45.4 ± 19.2, P = .001), and VAS scores (single, from 7.1 ± 1.0 to 5.10 ± 2.0, P = .002; and triple, from 7.3 ± 1.0 to 3.7 ± 2.2, P = .001) of both the single and triple injection groups compared to the baseline. WOMAC total (P = .03) and VAS scores (P = .006) of the triple injection group were significantly better but there was no significant difference in WOMAC pain (P = .06), WOMAC physical (P = .06) and WOMAC stiffness (0.08) subscales.

Conclusions

This research revealed that triple PRP injections are more effective than single injections at improving functional outcomes. Furthermore, the potential to alleviate pain may be greater with multiple injections; however, this effect was not consistently observed across all pain evaluation metrics.