Adult Stem Cell Therapy as an Alternative Treatment in Knee Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Objective: Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, also known as degenerative joint disease of the knee because of progressive loss of articular cartilage, is the most common disabling conditions of the knee joint, which often presents with pain and stiffness and progresses to affect activity of daily living. The prevalence of knee OA will continue to rise due to factors like obesity and increased life expectancy. Roughly 13% of women and 10% of men 60 years and older have symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. Among those older than 70 years of age, the prevalence rises to as high as 40%. Our aim is to evaluate the importance of adult stem cell therapy (ADSC) as an alternative treatment in knee osteoarthritis. Patient, Materials and Methods: A case of an elderly patient with early right knee osteoarthritis (grade 2). Right knee severity was assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster universities osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) scale. Radiologic studies (X-ray and MRI) were done. Patient had a session of autologous adult stem cell therapy - Mesenchymal stem cells retrieved from the fat and bone marrow along with platelet rich plasma (PRP) from blood which was administered intra-articularly via ultrasound guidance. Procedure was done on an outpatient basis and was well tolerated with no complications. Results: Patient was observed in the first 6 months under the instructions of no physiotherapy to preserve new maturing cells. The WOMAC assessed on the 0 and 6 months showed quality improvement from an initial score of 48/96 to a score of 8/96. Post procedure X-ray of the Right knee on the sixth month showed marked progressive changes. Conclusion: Adult stem cell therapy is promising to be an effective alternative treatment in knee osteoarthritis. It is minimally invasive, safe with no major treatment related adverse effect. Case study showed a positive outcome according to all the grading systems used in this study for the initial 6 months.