Intra-articular Corticosteroid Injections Research Articles

Synovial fluid monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio in knee osteoarthritis patients predicts patient response to conservative treatment: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundBiomarkers that predict the treatment response in patients with knee osteoarthritis are scarce. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of synovial fluid cell counts and their ratios as biomarkers of primary knee osteoarthritis.MethodsThis retrospective study investigated 96 consecutive knee osteoarthritis patients with knee effusion who underwent joint fluid aspiration analysis and received concomitant intra-articular corticosteroid injections and blood tests. The monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were calculated. After 6 months of treatment, patients were divided into two groups: the responder group showing symptom resolution, defined by a visual analog scale (VAS) score of ≤ 3, without additional treatment, and the non-responder group showing residual symptoms, defined by a VAS score of > 3 and requiring further intervention, such as additional medication, repeated injections, or surgical treatment. Unpaired t-tests and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted between the two groups to predict treatment response after conservative treatment. The predictive value was calculated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, and the optimal cutoff value was determined.ResultsSynovial fluid MLR was significantly higher in the non-responder group compared to the responder group (1.86 ± 1.64 vs. 1.11 ± 1.37, respectively; p = 0.02). After accounting for confounding variables, odds ratio of non-responder due to increased MLR were 1.63 (95% confidence interval: 1.11–2.39). The optimal MLR cutoff value for predicting patient response to conservative treatment was 0.941.ConclusionsMLR may be a potential biomarker for predicting the response to conservative treatment in patients with primary knee osteoarthritis.

38-year-old woman with septic arthritis and retroperitoneal abscess after intraarticular corticosteroid injection: A case report

Rationale: Septic arthritis (SA) is an uncommon condition in which a pathogen invades a joint. SA presents clinically with monoarticular joint pain, swelling, and fever. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are common diagnostic modalities for SA in conjunction with lab work such as white blood cell count. SA is typically treated by joint drainage and antibiotics and is associated with poor outcomes. Patient concerns: A 38-year-old woman with 3 prior arthroscopies over a seven-year period presented with an unresolved eight-year history of sharp intermittent pain in the groin and lateral hip. She was referred for nonsurgical treatment of her pain and received 2 corticosteroid hip injections. Subsequently following the injection, the patient developed fever, chills, and a mottled rash over her hip. Diagnoses: Magnetic resonance imaging and inflammatory markers were obtained. Osteomyelitis with septic arthritis of the right hip with extension into the retroperitoneum was confirmed. Interventions: The patient underwent resection arthroplasty with open retroperitoneal decompression of the iliopsoas abscess. Cultures isolated Staphylococcus aureus. Subsequent staged articulating hip spacer followed by reimplantation with total hip arthroplasty were performed. Outcomes: The patient had significant improvement as measured by patient reported outcomes scores. Lessons: This case report describes a unique case of hip septic arthritis, with retroperitoneal abscess post-intra articular injection, that resulted in subsequent open retroperitoneal incision and debridement followed by two-stage resection arthroplasty with articulating spacer and total hip arthroplasty.

PATIENTS WITH FEMOROACETABULAR IMPINGEMENT SYNDROME OBTAIN SIGNIFICANT AND SUSTAINED IMPROVEMENT FOLLOWING A COMBINED HIP INJECTION AND REHABILITATION PROGRAM

INTRODUCTION Initial treatment recommendations for symptomatic femoroacetabular impingement syndrome include non-surgical therapies such as injections and rehabilitation. However, many patients undergo isolated injections or a rudimentary exercise regime. This study investigated the benefit of a combined intra-articular hip injection and structured exercise rehabilitation program in patients with FAIS. METHODS Participants were recruited and underwent a guided intra-articular injection of corticosteroid and local anaesthetic, followed by a 12-week rehabilitation program. Patients were assessed pre-and post-injection(8 weeks, 4, 6, 12 and 24 months) via patient-reported outcome measures including the 33-item International Hip Outcome Tool and Hip Outcome score. Hip ROM and peak isometric hip strength in all planes were assessed, along with single-limb hop capacity. Limb Symmetry Indices were calculated. The percentage of patients transitioning toward surgery over the period was evaluated. RESULTS A total of 44 patients underwent the injection and completed the initial 8-week rehabilitation component. A significant improvement (p<0.05) in all PROMs was observed, with 93% of patients satisfied. A significant increase (p<0.05) in all active hip ROM and isometric strength measures was observed, sustained over the 24-month period. Bilateral improvements in hop capacity were observed, with all hop test LSIs significantly improving (p<0.05). Overall, 14 patients (32%) progressed toward surgical intervention over the 24-month post-injection period. These patients reported significantly worse (p<0.05) PROMs pre-surgery and more pain within the first 4 weeks post-injection. CONCLUSION This is the first study seeking to implement and comprehensively assess a best-practice, multimodal non-operative program consisting of an intra-articular injection and a structured exercise program. Most patients with symptomatic FAIS demonstrated significant improvement in symptoms.

The Most Effective Corticosteroid Dose in the Treatment of Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis: Feasibility Pilot and Protocol for Double Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial

ObjectiveOsteoarthritis affects over 5.4 million people in the United States. A common treatment is to perform intra-articular corticosteroid injections. However, the ideal steroid dose is unknown. This study aimed to pilot a corticosteroid injection protocol for primary glenohumeral OA. MethodsWe conducted a double blinded randomized feasibility pilot study. Patients with primary osteoarthritis of the glenohumeral joint were recruited and randomized to receive 20 mg, 40 mg, or 80 mg of triamcinolone. The primary outcome was the feasibility of the protocol and change in the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) 6 months following injection. Results300 patients were screened for participation with 78 meeting inclusion criteria. 19 subjects completed the study. The most common reason for not participating was concern they would receive a smaller dose than previous injections. There was a 26% dropout rate, with 2 patients undergoing a total shoulder arthroplasty. There was no clinically significant difference (p=0.090) between the groups at 6-months for the SPADI although all treatment groups showed a reduction of SPADI from baseline at 6 months. There was one adverse event in the 20 mg group, with a patient experiencing facial flushing after the injection. ConclusionWe were successful in developing a feasible protocol. In the future excluding those who have received previous injections would be helpful for a higher enrollment rate. This patient concern highlights the need to complete clinical trials to guide medical decisions surrounding corticosteroid administration. NCT03586687

P072 The management of hand osteoarthritis in the NHS: a national UK clinician-based study

Abstract Background/Aims Hand Osteoarthritis (HOA) is a condition causing significant pain and disability in those affected. Treatments include pharmacological/non-pharmacological approaches, including splinting, pain management with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), intra-articular corticosteroid (ICS) injections and surgery. There may be variability in ICS use, since few trials have compared efficacy of ICS over placebo. We conducted a UK-wide study of practising clinicians regarding their management of HOA. Methods An online survey was conducted from September 2022 - May 2023. Practising clinicians who are members of their respective societies were contacted by email. Participants provided information about their job role, region of work, nature of their clinical practice, subtypes of HOA managed and preferred management options. Results A total of 132 complete responses were obtained from the survey. Responding clinicians included Consultant Rheumatologists (43.2%), Consultant Hand Surgeons (34.8%), Rheumatology Specialist Nurses (6.1%), Rheumatology trainees (7.4%), Occupational Therapists (4.6%), Consultant Radiologists (1.5%), Physiotherapists (0.8%), General Practitioners (0.8%) and Physician Associates (0.8%). Responses were obtained from London (25%), South East (12.9%), South West (4.5%), East of England (6.8%), Midlands (12.1%), North West (3.8%), North East (3.8%), Yorkshire and the Humber (28%), Scotland (0.8%) and Wales (2.3%). There were 48.5% of respondents working in tertiary care services, 37.1% in district general hospitals, 13.6% across multiple sites in secondary care and 0.8% in primary care. Ninety-eight per cent of responders were seeing patients with HOA and the most common number of patients seen with HOA was 1-10 per month, reported by 40.3% of respondents. The most common type of HOA observed was first CMC joint or DIP/PIP joint involvement (more than 50%), with a lower proportion for erosive HOA (up to 10%). More than 90% of respondents reported that NSAIDs/hand therapy/intra-articular steroid injections/surgery were the treatments most likely to be offered. Eighty per cent of respondents reported an awareness of splinting, 31% were aware of taping. Regarding ICS, 62.9% performed ICS injections and 37.1% preferred injections under ultrasound (US) guidance. Reasons for preferring injections in clinic included time taken for US guided injections due to pressure on radiology services. Some clinicians preferred US guided confirmation of inflammation before proceeding to injection. Conclusion We obtained a high response rate from clinicians managing HOA. The most common HOA subtype observed was the first CMC, PIP/DIP joints. Recent EULAR (European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology) recommendations state that ‘intra-articular injections of glucocorticoids should not generally be used in hand OA’, but can be considered in patients with painful PIP/DIP joints. We found high use of ICS injections as an adjunct to other therapies. Injection in clinic was preferred due to pressures on Radiology services. Our data suggest a higher use of ICS in clinical practice in comparison with published guideline recommendations. Disclosure N. Sofat: None. L. Ahmed: None. A. Radulovic: None. S. Cerovac: None. S. Umarji: None.

OA42 Effect of intra-articular corticosteroid injections for osteoarthritis on subsequent use of pain medications: an instrumental variable and propensity score analysis

Abstract Background/Aims Intra-articular corticosteroid injections (IACI) are recommended in the UK by NICE as an adjunctive treatment for uncontrolled pain from osteoarthritis (OA). NICE guidance states there is no evidence for therapeutic benefit lasting beyond three months, and that more evidence is needed on effectiveness at non-knee joints. We therefore aimed to assess the longer-term effect of IACI use on pain medication prescriptions among people with hand, hip, knee or shoulder OA. Methods We conducted a cohort study using UK primary care (CPRD GOLD) data for patients aged ≥20 years with a first diagnosis of OA during 2005-2019, excluding those with prior orthopaedic surgery referral or OA diagnosed at multiple joints. Exposure to IACI was defined using Read codes. The primary outcome was incident prescribing of pain medication: oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, oral corticosteroids, paracetamol, partial opioids, and topical NSAIDs. In main analyses, an instrumental variable (IV) approach was used. Index date was six months after OA diagnosis date and IV was defined as practice preference for IACI use in the year prior to index date (single and recurrent use considered separately). Outcomes were measured over five years from index date. Covariate balance was assessed, and two-step Poisson regression used where assumptions met. In secondary analyses, propensity score (PS) matching was carried out and time-varying exposure Cox models used to estimate treatment effect. Results Of 181,818 eligible patients, 92,157 (50.7%) were retained in IV analyses of single IACI and 89,103 (49.0%) of repeat IACI. Covariates were well balanced (SMD ≤0.1) across IV groups for hand (single IACI only) and knee OA, but not hip or shoulder OA. In IV analyses of hand OA, single IACI was associated with lower 5-year cumulative incidence of several pain medications including oral corticosteroids (relative risk [RR] 0.27 [95% CI 0.10, 0.76], paracetamol (RR 0.27 [0.09, 0.78] and partial opioids (RR 0.24 [0.10, 0.60]). IACI for knee OA was associated with lower 5-year cumulative incidence of most pain medications, e.g., for partial opioids a RR 0.46 [95% CI 0.34, 0.61] and RR 0.33 [0.21, 0.51] for single and recurrent IACI, respectively. Most PS matched analyses had >20,000 included patients (all joints combined), with covariates well balanced across IACI exposure status. PS matching confirmed a reduction in incidence of several pain medications associated with single IACI, e.g., lower incidence of partial opioids following IACI for any of hand, hip, knee or shoulder OA. Conclusion Our main findings suggest IACI use for hand or knee OA may reduce subsequent need for analgesics. Among knee OA patients, generally larger reductions were observed following recurrent than single IACI. In secondary analyses, single IACI for hand, hip, knee or shoulder OA was associated with lower subsequent use of partial opioids. Disclosure S. Hawley: None. A. Prats-Uribe: Grants/research support; European Medicines Agency. G. Matharu: Grants/research support; National Institute of Health and Care Research, Academy of Medical Sciences. A. Delmestri: None. D. Prieto-Alhambra: Consultancies; AstraZeneca, UCB Biopharma. Grants/research support; European Medicines Agency, Innovative Medicines Initiative, Amgen, Chiesi-Taylor, Lilly, Janssen, Novartis, UCB Biopharma. Other; Amgen, Astrellas, Janssen, Synapse Management Partners, UCB Biopharma. A. Judge: Grants/research support; National Institute of Health and Care Research, Health Data Research UK, Versus Arthritis, Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership (HQIP), Royal College of Physicians (RCP), Tommy's, The Health Foundation. M. Whitehouse: Royalties; Taylor Francis. Member of speakers’ bureau; Heraeus. Grants/research support; National Institute of Health and Care Research, Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership (HQIP), Ceramtec.

Sciatica after intra articular corticosteroids injection

Background. The intra-articular cortico-steroid (IA-CS) injections treatment are still debatable despite its effectiveness. The failure can cause sciatica which IA-CS injected at the sacroiliac joint (SIJ). The study was done to determine non-technical factors that cause recurrent LBP after optimal SIJ IA-CS injections. Methods. A prospective-clinical study was done that looked at recurring sciatica variables in the cases that received intra-articular injection of CS. Cases were diagnosed with sciatica according to the IASP criteria. All patients had intra-articular CS injections. The numerical rating scale (NRS) was used for rating the pain in the SIJ on a range of (0-10). The scale was reviewed 3, 6, and 9 months post treatment. Age, gender, BMI, trauma history, long-term standing, NSAID used and knee pain were all documented as intra-articular injection treatment possible failure factors. Results. In total, 50 subjects were enrolled, with more females (60%) than males (40%). The mean of age was 55.8±7.4 years. History of trauma was reported in 60%. Long sitting and standing history presented in 70% and 20%, respectively. The recurrence of sciatica affected 30(60%) patients. The right sciatica was affecting more than half of the cases (60%). The vast majority of cases (80%) used NSAID. The pain began within the last three months in 80% of the patients. History of CS injection was recorded in 38% of the cases. Lower limb pain was reported in 80% of the cases. Cases with and without recurrence had the mean age of 55.9 ± 9.5 years and 50.6 ± 14.9 years, respectively. The SIJ pain recurrence is strongly connected with elderly and long sitting in logistic regression analysis. Conclusions. Elderly, NSAID utilize, and uni-lateral sciatica involvement are protective factors against SIJ discomfort recurrence.

When should the use of biological agents be considered in persistent oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients?

JADAS10 indicating ongoing severe disease activity at 3rd and 6th months rather than baseline JADAS10 is associated with the addition of bDMARDs. • Oligoarticular JIA patients have the best outcomes among JIA categories and respond favorably to first-line therapies such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and intraarticular corticosteroid injections. • Clinically inactive disease rates have increased with the widespread use of biological agents in oligoarticular JIA patients who have not responded to initial therapies. • Approximately one-fifth of patients with persistent oligoarticular JIA on methotrexate may require the addition of a biological disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug during follow-up. • The JADAS10 calculated at 3 and 6months is a valuable tool to identify patients who should be added biological disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs in persistent oligoarticular JIA.

Pharmacological interventions for early-stage frozen shoulder: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

To evaluate the efficacy of pharmacological interventions for treating early-stage, pain predominant, adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder. We performed a systematic review in accordance with PRSIMA guidelines. Searches were conducted on PUBMED, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials on the 24th of February 2022. Outcomes were shoulder pain, shoulder function and range of movement. Synthesis involved both qualitative analysis for all studies and pairwise meta-analyses followed by a network meta-analysis for randomised controlled trials (RCTs). A total of 3,252 articles were found, of which 31 met inclusion criteria, and 22 of these were RCTs. Intraarticular (IA) injection of corticosteroids (8 RCTS, 340 participants) and IA injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) (3 RCTs, 177 participants) showed benefit at 12 weeks compared with physical therapy in terms of shoulder pain and function, while oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) (2 RCTs, 44 participants) and IA injection of hyaluronate (2 RCTs, 42 participants) did not show a benefit. Only IA PRP showed benefit over physical therapy for shoulder range of movement. These results shows that IA corticosteroids IA PRP injections are beneficial for early-stage frozen shoulder. These findings should be appraised with care considering the risk of bias, heterogeneity, and inconsistency of the included studies. We believe that research focused on early interventions for frozen shoulder could improve patient outcomes and lead to cost-savings derived from avoiding long-term disability. Further well-designed studies comparing with standardised physical therapy or placebo are required to improve evidence to guide management.

A Cross-Sectional Study of Factors Predicting the Duration of the Efficacy of Viscosupplementation in Knee Osteoarthritis.

Background: An advanced radiological stage and obesity are predictive of poorer and shorter responses to viscosupplementation in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Very little is known regarding the impact of other factors such as sport practice, comorbidities, or anatomical features of OA. Methods: This study aimed to investigate patients' and OA characteristics associated with the duration of the effectiveness (DE) of viscosupplementation in patients with knee OA. It was a cross-sectional, single-centre clinical trial in patients with knee OA treated with intra-articular (IA) hyaluronic acid (HA) injection(s) within the previous 3 years. The investigators collected data regarding demographic and radiographic features (Kellgren-Lawrence grade and involved knee compartments), dosing regimen (single or repeat injections), the presence and volume of joint effusion, previous or concomitant IA corticosteroid injection, the number of previous viscosupplementations, and comorbidities. Patients completed a questionnaire including the self-assessment of DE (the number of weeks during which viscosupplementation was effective on symptoms), the activity level (sedentary, active, or athletic), and the level of sport activity (light, moderate, or intensive). Predictors of the DE were studied in bivariate and multivariate analyses. Results: In total, 105 patients (149 knees) were analysed (62% women, mean age 66.1 ± 13.2 years, mean BMI 27.5 ± 7.5 kg/m2). The mean DE was 48.2 ± 24.8 weeks. In bivariate analysis, the predictors of a shorter DE were BMI > 27.5 kg/m2, more than three previous viscosupplementations, Kellgren-Lawrence grade 4, sedentary patients, and multicompartmental involvement. In the multivariate analysis, four independent factors remained associated with a shorter DE: BMI > 27.5 kg/m2, multicompartmental knee involvement, number of viscosupplementations >3, and sedentary lifestyle. A statistically significant association between a longer DE and arterial hypertension was found, suggesting a beneficial effect of certain antihypertensive medications. Conclusions: This study confirms that being overweight significantly reduces the duration of the effectiveness of viscosupplementation. It also shows that viscosupplementation is more lastingly effective in unicompartmental OA and among active or athletic patients. The duration of effectiveness decreases when the treatment is repeated more than three times.

Long-term follow-up of 109 children with juvenile idiopathic oligoarthritis after first intra-articular corticosteroid injection

BackgroundTo evaluate long-term outcomes and prognostic factors in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), presenting as oligoarthritis, who received IAC as the first treatment for their disease.MethodsWe conducted retrospective study at the University Children’s Hospital Ljubljana, Slovenia, from January 2015 to May 2023 in children with JIA, clinically presenting as oligoarthritis receiving intra-articular corticosteroid injection (IAC) as the initial treatment. Patient and treatment data were collected, and the outcomes were categorized into three groups based on the later need for therapy: no therapy needed, only additional IAC needed and systemic therapy needed. The last group was further divided based on the requirement of bDMARD. Log-rank (Mantel-Cox) survival analyses compared different outcome groups.ResultsWe included 109 patients with JIA, presenting as oligoarthritis (63% female), who were first treated with IAC. The mean age at IAC was 8.0 years, with a 4.3-year follow-up. Notably, 38.5% of patients did not require additional therapy post-IAC, whereas 15.5% required only additional IAC. Systemic therapy, mainly methotrexate (MTX), was necessary for 45.9% of patients, initiated in average 7.8 months post-IAC. Biologic therapy was initiated in 22% in average 2.2 years post-IAC. Number of injected joints correlated with the need for biologics. At the last follow-up, 88.9% had inactive disease. ANA positivity (P = 0.049, chi square 3.89) and HLA B27 antigen presence (P = 0.050, chi square 3.85) were associated with the need for systemic therapy. A subgroup of children older than 8 years, ANA and HLA B27 negative required significantly less systemic (25.8%) and biologic therapy (9.6%) compared to other patients (p = 0.050, chi square 3.77).ConclusionAlmost 40% of children with oligoarticular JIA requiring IAC did not progress to chronic disease. Younger age, ANA positivity, and HLA B27 presence were predictive factors for systemic therapy, while the number of injected joints predicted the future need for biologic therapy.

CORTICOSTEROID AND LIDOCAIN INJECTION FOR TREATMENT OF HIP OSTEOARTHRITIS : AN UPDATE SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Background:  Intraarticular corticosteroid injections (ICSI) can relieve pain in patients with symptomatic osteoarthritis (OA) for weeks. A recent randomized controlled trial showed superior pain improvement following ICSI compared to treatment without injection over a period of 6 months. Atchia et al. compared ICSI to saline-injection and treatment without injection and found ICSI to be the only treatment resulting in significant improvement in both pain and function. The aim: The aim of this study to show about corticosteroid and lidocaine injection for treatment of hip osteoarthritis. Methods: By the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020, this study was able to show that it met all of the requirements. This search approach, publications that came out between 2014 and 2024 were taken into account. Several different online reference sources, like Pubmed, SagePub, and Google Scholar were used to do this. It was decided not to take into account review pieces, works that had already been published, or works that were only half done. Result: In the PubMed database, the results of our search get 7 articles, whereas the results of our search on SagePub get 6 articles, on Google Scholar 1690 articles. Records remove before screening are 1438, so we get 265 articles fos screening. After we screened based on record exclude, we compiled a total of 10 papers. We included five research that met the criteria. Conclusion: Ultrasound guided intra-articular hip injection of corticosteroid and local anaesthetic, administered with advice and education, is a clinically effective treatment for rapid and sustained symptom response compared with advice and education alone for people with hip osteoarthritis. These findings provide evidence to inform international guidelines and support treatment decision making for policy makers, payers (commissioners), GPs, and clinicians in musculoskeletal services.

A Comparative Study of Intra-Articular Knee Injection of Leukocyte-Poor Platelet-Rich Plasma Compared to Corticosteroids and Local Anesthetics in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common reason for orthopedic secondary care referral. And it is one of the main causes of disability in adults worldwide. It is estimated to affect between 10 to 25% of patients over the age of 60. Intra-articular corticosteroid injection (IA CS) and physical therapy were the two choices in an attempt to provide symptomatic management or deferred surgery. There is a growing trend is intra-articular platelet-rich plasma (IA PRP) injection to reduce pain and improve function in OA patients. PRP is divided into two types: leukocyte-poor platelet-rich plasma (LP-PRP) and leukocyte-rich platelet-rich plasma (LR-PRP). It was shown that LR-PRP increases pro-inflammatory factors and also decreases anti-catabolic mediators, and LP-PRP has the opposite aspect.
 Methods: In our research 40 patients were divided into two equal groups, IA corticosteroid and leukocyte-poor platelet-rich plasma (LP-PRP) 40 cc of blood from the basilic vein of the upper limb is used with two step centrifugation. The final samples were 4 millilitres product injected intra-articular. group two (corticosteroid (CS)) received an intra-articular injection of triamcinolone acetate (Kenalog) 40 mg/ml along with 4 ml of lidocaine 0.02% (Abureyhan Co.) for a total of 5 ml. The needle used is a 22-gauge pencil-point Quincke needle (Dr. Japan Co, Ltd), which is performed with the Sonosite Edge II ultrasound guide and in an anterior-lateral manner in the knee joint. Pain was assessed on a visual analogue scale (VAS range 0-10 points) before, one week, one month, two month and 3 months after the operation. The WOMAC questionnaire was also filled before injection and three months following injection and other variables were examined.
 Results: There were no significant differences between the groups across all the baseline parameters including age, sex, body mass index and comorbidities including high blood pressure, diabetes and smoking. Both injection groups were effective in reducing patients' pain from one week to three months after injection. The level of pain in the first week after injection was significantly lower in the corticosteroid group than in the PRP group. In the first month and the third month after the injection, the pain reduction according to mean scores of VAS was the same in both groups.
 Conclusion: In short, one injection of PRP can reduce the pain of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee as much as corticosteroids during a three-month treatment process. Considering the possible side effects of corticosteroids, this alternative treatment can be considered with further investigation.

Efficacy of Intra-Articular Corticosteroid Injection for Nonsurgical Management of Trapeziometacarpal Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

As osteoarthritis (OA) of the trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint leads to a high degree of disease burden with compromises in rudimentary and fine movements of the hand, intra-articular injections may be a desirable treatment option. However, because there are no evidence-based guidelines, the choice of intra-articular injection type is left to the discretion of the individual surgeon in collaboration with the patient. The purpose of our study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis using level I studies to compare outcomes following corticosteroid and alternative methods of intra-articular injections for the management of TMC OA. Our hypothesis was that intra-articular corticosteroid injections were no more effective than other methods of intra-articular injections for the management of TMC OA. A systematic literature search was performed. Eligible for inclusion were randomized control trials reporting on intra-articular corticosteroid injection for the management of TMC OA. Clinical outcomes were recorded. The 10 included studies comprised 673 patients. The mean age was 57.8 ± 8.3 years, with a mean follow-up of 6.4 ± 2.7 months. There was no significant difference in visual analog scale scores, grip strength and tip pinch strength between corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid at short- and medium-term follow-up. Further, there was no difference in visual analog scale pain scores at rest at medium-term follow-up between corticosteroids and platelet-rich plasma. Despite short-term improvement with intra-articular corticosteroid injections, there was no significant difference in pain and functional outcomes following intra-articular corticosteroid injections compared to hyaluronic acid or platelet-rich plasma administration. Given the affordability, ease of administration, and efficacy associated with corticosteroids, they are a favorable option when considering the choice of intra-articular injection for the management of TMC OA. Therapeutic II.

INTRA-ARTICULAR PLATELET RICH PLASMA IN THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS

Introduction: Osteoarthritis of knee is the most common worldwide degenerative joint disease and is a common condition associated with pain and morbidity which significantly impacts the patients mobility and quality of life. It is treated by use of exercises, weight reduction, walking supports, bracing, topical and oral NSAID, intra-articular (IA) injections of corticosteroids and blood-derived products, including platelet-rich-plasma. An autologous blood product containing a high percentage of various growth factors (GFs), cytokines and modulating factors as PRP has shown promising results in achieving this goal. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections in patients affected by knee osteoarthritis (KOA) of grades from 1 to 3 Kellgren‑Lawrence (KL) grading. Materials and Methods: In this study a total of 30 patients, radiologically confirmed with knee osteoarthritis. All patients were managed with intra-articular platelet rich plasma injection. The pain and function of the target knee were evaluated by the VAS, KSS and IKDC scales at the baseline, 1 week, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, 18 weeks, 24 weeks and 48 weeks after treatment. Results: In this study, there was reduction of 5 ± 0.4 and 4 in mean VAS from baseline was found after 24 and 48 weeks after treatment. A significant function improvements of 32.10±1.5 and 21.4±4.9 in mean KSS from baseline was seen after 24 and 48 weeks respectively after treatment. Similarly a significant function improvements of 47.1±3.9 and 32.1±4.6 in mean IKDC from baseline was seen after 24 and 48 weeks respectively after treatment. Conclusion: Intra articular platelet rich plasma produce superior outcomes for symptomatic management in the treatment of patients with knee osteoarthritis grade I, II and III, including improved pain management, less joint stiffness and better participation in daily activity.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Injections versus Steroid Injections in the Management of Upper and Lower Extremity Orthopedic Conditions: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis.

Although corticosteroid injections are an effective treatment for musculoskeletal pathologies, they may not be suitable for all patients. The purpose of this systematic review was to compare clinical outcomes between patients who received NSAID and corticosteroid injections for various orthopedic conditions. Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched, and meta-analyses were performed using a random-effects model for outcomes presented in three or more studies. Other studies were qualitatively analyzed. A total of 28 articles with 2113 patients were included. A meta-analysis of five studies in patients with shoulder impingement syndrome demonstrated that there was no significant difference in the pain visual analogue scale (VAS) between subacromial NSAID injections and corticosteroid injections at 1 month [weighted mean difference (WMD) -0.244; 95% CI, -1.232 to 0.745; I2, 94.5%]. For patients with knee osteoarthritis, a meta-analysis of three studies demonstrated that there was no significant difference between intraarticular NSAID injections and corticosteroid injections in pain VAS at 1 month (WMD 0.754; 95% CI, -0.413 to 1.921; I2, 90.2%) and 3 months (WMD-0.089; 95% CI, -0.345 to 0.166; I2, 0%). A review of the studies assessing pain outcomes for hip osteoarthritis, adhesive capsulitis, and plantar fasciitis showed no significant differences between the NSAID and corticosteroid groups. NSAID injections may be safe and effective alternatives to steroid injections, especially in shoulder impingement syndrome and knee osteoarthritis.

Role of Preoperative Intra-Articular Corticosteroid Injections on Periprosthetic Joint Infection in Total Hip Arthroplasty and Its Association With Preoperative Timing: A Single-Center Series of 5,909 Hips

BackgroundPreoperative intra-articular corticosteroid injections to the hip joint increase the risk of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) during primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study aimed to determine the relationship between preoperative timing of intra-articular corticosteroid injections and PJI risk following THA using data from a single-center hospital. MethodsThis single-center, retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent a THA between 2014 and 2020. Medical records were checked for intra-articular corticosteroid injections and PJI within 1 year of surgery. Patients were categorized into groups based on whether they received “no injection” or “injection 0 to 3 months,” “3 to 6 months,” and “> 6 months prior to THA.” Hazard ratios (HRs) for these groups were calculated using multivariate Cox regression analysis, correcting for potential confounders, and presented with 95% confidence intervals [95% CIs]. ResultsIn total, 4,507 patients (5,909 THAs) were identified. A total of 1,581 patients (27%) received an injection prior to THA. Without considering the timing factor, no increased risk for PJI following an intra-articular injection was noted (P = .19). Comparing the specified groups using multivariate analysis, corticosteroid injection within 3 months of THA showed an increased risk of PJI (HR 2.63, 95% CI 1.18 to 5.87, P = .018), but this effect was not observed for the “injection 3 to 6 months” group (HR 1.51, 95% CI 0.74 to 3.08, P = .264). ConclusionsCorticosteroid injections administered up to 3 months prior to THA increased the risk of PJI within 1 year after THA, with an HR of 2.63; however, injections between 3 and 6 months before surgery did not have a significantly higher infection rate.

Corticosteroid Injections Administered Within 4 Weeks Prior to Hip Arthroscopy Are Associated With Higher Rates of Postoperative Infection

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between the timing of intra-articular hip corticosteroid injections and the risk of postoperative infection in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy. MethodThe 2010-2021 PearlDiver M157 administrative claims database was queried for patients who underwent hip arthroscopy. Patients who received intra-articular corticosteroid injections within 12 weeks prior to arthroscopy were matched to those who did not 1:1 based on age, sex, and Elixhauser-Comorbidity Index, and the presence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity, and tobacco use. Those with injection prior to arthroscopy were subdivided based on having had the injection within 12 weeks prior to surgery. To verify that the corticosteroid injection and surgery were conducted in the hip joint, Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes were utilized. Using CPT coding and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 9th or 10th Revision, postoperative surgical site infection following corticosteroid injection was evaluated. The impact of the timing of preoperative corticosteroid injections on the incidence of postoperative infection was evaluated using multivariable logistic regression analysis. ResultsA total of 12,390 hip arthroscopy cases were identified, including 3,579 patients who received a corticosteroid injection 0-4 weeks prior to the surgery, 4,759 within 4-8 weeks prior to the surgery, and 4,052 within 8-12 weeks prior to the surgery. Compared to controls, patients who received a corticosteroid injection within 0-4 weeks preoperatively had a significantly higher rate of surgical site infection (OR 2.43; P=0.0001). No significant differences were observed in infection rates at the later time intervals (4-8 weeks or 8-12 weeks). Furthermore, in comparison to controls, patients who received a corticosteroid injection had a significantly higher rate of wound dehiscence (OR 1.84, P=0.0007). ConclusionIntra-articular corticosteroid injections within 4 weeks prior to hip arthroscopy were significantly associated with increased surgical site infection rates following hip arthroscopy surgery.

Complications and opioid-prescribing patterns following genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation versus intra-articular injection: a matched cohort study.

Genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation (GNRFA) is an emerging procedure used to relieve pain from severe knee osteoarthritis. While there have been rare reports of significant complications, their incidence has not been well established. The objective of this study was to examine complication rates at 30 and 90 days post treatment as well as characterize opioid-prescribing patterns before and after treatment. A large national database was queried to identify patients undergoing GNRFA from 2015 to 2022 and matched to control cohorts composed of patients receiving either intra-articular corticosteroid (CSI) or hyaluronic acid injection (HAI) of the knee. Complication rates at 30 and 90 days were analyzed. Opioid utilization was assessed in the 6 months before and after treatment. Rates of infection (0.1%, CI 0.02% to 0.5% vs 0.2%, CI 0.05% to 0.6%), septic arthritis (<0.1%, CI 0.003% to 0.4% vs 0.1%, CI 0.02% to 0.5%), deep vein thrombosis (2.0%, CI 1.3% to 2.7% vs 1.6%, CI 1.0% to 2.2%), pulmonary embolism (1.2%, CI 0.6% to 1.7% vs 1.3%, CI 1.1% to 2.5%), bleeding (<0.1%, CI 0.003% to 0.4% vs 0%, CI 0% to 0.3%), seroma (<0.1%, CI 0.003% to 0.4% vs 0.2%, CI 0.05% to 0.6%), nerve injury (0%, CI 0% to 0.3% vs 0%, CI 0% to 0.3%) and thermal injury (0%, CI 0% to 0.3% vs 0%, CI 0% to 0.3%) were not different between CSI and GNRFA cohorts at 30 days. Rate of swelling was significantly greater in the GNRFA cohort (9.4%, CI 7.6% to 10.4% vs 6.4%, CI 4.8% to 7.2%, p=0.003) at 30 days. At 90 days, rates of septic arthritis (0.1%, CI 0.02% to 0.5% vs 0.3%, CI 0.08% to 0.7%), deep vein thrombosis (3.1%, CI 2.1% to 3.8% vs 3.1%, CI 2.2% to 3.9%), pulmonary embolism (1.5%, CI 0.9% to 2.1% vs 1.8%, CI 1.2% to 2.5%), and nerve injury (0%, CI 0% to 0.3% vs <0.1%, CI 0.003% to 0.4%) were not significantly different.Between HAI versus GNRFA cohorts, no significant differences were seen in rates of infection (0.3%, CI 0.08% to 0.07% vs 0.7%, CI 0.3% to 1.2%), septic arthritis (0.2%, CI 0.05% to 0.6% vs 0.4%, CI 0.2% to 0.9%), deep vein thrombosis (2.0%, CI 1.3% to 2.7% vs 1.9%, CI 1.2% to 2.7%), pulmonary embolism (1.5%, CI 0.9% to 2.2% vs 1.7%, CI 1.1% to 2.5%), bleeding (0.1%, CI 0.02% to 0.5% vs 0.2%, CI 0.05% to 0.6%), seroma (<0.1%, CI 0.03% to 0.4% vs 0%, CI 0% to 0.3%), nerve injury (0%, CI 0% to 0.3% vs 0%, CI 0% to 0.3%), swelling (14.0%, CI 11.6% to 15.1% vs 12.0%, CI 10.3% to 13.6%), and thermal injury (<0.1%, CI 0.03% to 0.4% vs <0.01%, CI 0.3% to 0.4%) at 30 days. Rates of infection (0.7%, CI 0.3% to 1.2% vs 1.4%, CI 0.9% to 2.1%), septic arthritis (0.3%, CI 0.1% to 0.8% vs 0.5%, CI 0.2% to 1.1%), deep vein thrombosis (3.6%, CI 2.6% to 4.4% vs 3.1%, CI 2.2% to 4.0%), pulmonary embolism (2.3%, CI 1.5% to 3.0% vs 2.1%, CI 1.4% to 3.0%) and nerve injury (0%, CI 0% to 0.3% vs 0.1%, CI 0.02% to 0.5%) were not significantly different at 90 days.There were no significant differences in level of pretreatment opioid utilization although overall consumption in mean daily morphine equivalents was greater in the GNRFA cohort. Opioid utilization significantly increased in the first 30 days after ablation in patients with no prior opioid use compared to controls. In patients with some and chronic prior opioid use, opioid requirements were generally decreased in all treatment groups at 6 months with no clearly superior treatment in reducing opioid consumption. Our study demonstrated that GNRFA possesses a safety profile similar to that of intra-articular injections although significant adverse events such as venous thromboembolism and septic arthritis may occur rarely. Although opioid utilization generally increased in the 30 days after ablation compared with intra-articular injection, similar reduction in opioid consumption at 6 months was seen in patients with prior opioid use in the ablation and control cohorts.

Intra-articular corticosteroid injections provide a clinically relevant benefit compared to placebo only at short-term follow-up in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

To quantify the clinical relevance of intra-articular corticosteroid effects compared to placebo for the injective treatment of knee osteoarthritis (OA). The PubMed, Cochrane Libraryand Web of Science databases were searched on May3, 2023. This study was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), published in English, with no time limitation regarding publication date, comparing intra-articular corticosteroids and placebo injections for knee OA. The effects were quantified at short- (≤6 weeks), mid- (>6 weeks and ≤3 months), and long-term (≥6 months) follow-ups. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the outcomes (visual analogue scale for pain - VAS: 1.4, Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index - WOMAC: 9) was used to interpret the clinical improvement provided by intra-articular corticosteroid injections compared to placebo. The quality of each article was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool and the GRADE guidelines. Among the 1030 articles retrieved, 11 RCTs (842 patients) were included. A comparison of the two groups revealed statistically significant differences in the improvement of VAS and WOMAC scores in terms of the mean difference (MD); this difference was in favour of corticosteroids at short-term (p < 0.001, MD = -1.6 and p < 0.001, MD = -9.9, respectively) and mid-term follow-ups (p = 0.001, mean MD = -1.3 and p = 0.005, MD = -4.9, respectively). No difference was observed at the long-term follow-up. The MDs between the improvements in the two groups reached the MCID values for the VAS and WOMAC only at the short-term follow-up. The RoB 2 tool and the GRADE evaluations showed the presence of risk of bias and limited quality of evidence. This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated that intra-articular corticosteroid injections offer clinically perceivable pain relief and functional improvement higher than the placebo effect only at short-term follow-up in patients affected by knee OA, with benefits losing clinical relevance already after 6 weeks. These results, together with the low number and the limited quality of the RCTscomparing this treatment with placebo, question the indication for the use of corticosteroid injections in clinical practice for the treatment of knee OA. Level I.