Intra-articular platelet rich plasma in osteoarthritis knee

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis is a slowly progressive disease of the diarthrodial joints. With articular cartilage degeneration, chondrocytes undergo mitosis and clustering. Degeneration of cartilage changes its biomechanical, biochemical, and structural properties. Numerous, non-invasive treatment options are available with emphasis on pain management, improvement in function and with a potential to modify the disease process and progress of cartilage degeneration. Platelets contain many growth factors, cytokines, and bioactive proteins which help regulate tissue healing and restoration. Autologous Platelet rich plasma contains a very high concentration of platelets above baseline levels and hence help in the improvement of disease. Methods: We conducted a study on 70 knees diagnosed as having Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) Grade 2-4 Osteoarthritis knee. Autologous Platelet Rich plasma was prepared and was injected into the affected knee joint. The study group was followed up at 1 week, 4 weeks, 12 weeks. Clinical outcome analysis was done for the efficacy on the basis of WOMAC score and NRS Score. Statistical analysis of data was performed and P-value was calculated. Results: Results obtained after statistical analysis suggested an overall improvement in WOMAC score in all grades of Osteoarthritis knee. Improvement in the patients having early stages was more in comparison to that seen in the patients in late stages.Conclusion: Platelet Rich Plasma therapy in an effective treatment option to improve the clinical outcomes in patients with Osteoarthritis knee. It has an advantage of giving satisfactory outcomes. Also, it is low cost, minimally invasive and safe in application.