Injection of Autologous Adipose Stromal Vascular Fraction in Combination with Autologous Conditioned Plasma for the Treatment of Advanced Knee Osteoarthritis Significantly Improves Clinical Symptoms.

Abstract

(1) Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease in the world. It is chronic, systemic, progressive and disabling. Orthobiologics have the potential to positively alter the course of this disease. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of SVF/ACP in the treatment of advanced osteoarthritis of the knee in an unfiltered patient population. We hypothesize that this therapy can improve the symptoms associated with osteoarthritis of the knee. We also hypothesize that there are patient-related factors that influence the efficacy of therapy. (2) Methods: Two hundred and thirteen patients with moderate to severe OA of the knee and SVF/ACP injection were recruited for this study. Patients were excluded if they did not provide informed consent or were not receiving SVF/ACP therapy. Pain, function, symptoms and quality of life were assessed using standardized scores (KOOS, WOMAC) before and after treatment. (3) Results: The VAS pain score was significantly reduced by at least 30% (p < 0.001). Knee function, as measured by the KOOS daily activity and sport scores, showed significant increases of 21% and 45%, respectively, at 6 months (p < 0.04). (4) Conclusions: Treatment of knee OA with SVF/ACP injection positively modifies the disease by significantly reducing pain and improving function.