Intra-articular Injection Of Platelet-rich Plasma Research Articles

The use of platelet rich plasma in the treatment of degenerative joint disease in cats: an exploratory case series.

To evaluate the effectiveness of intra-articular autologous Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) in managing Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) in cats. Prospective pilot clinical trial. Six domestic cats with clinically and radiographically diagnosed DJD received intra-articular injections of autologous PRP. Clinical assessments pre and post intra-articular injections were conducted using the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index (FMPI, owner assessed) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS, clinician assessed) at baseline, Day 14, Day 28, and Day 42-45. Significant improvements were noted in both FMPI and VAS scores at the end of the study period, indicating enhanced joint function and reduced pain. The study suggests the potential of PRP therapy as a safe and effective treatment for feline DJD, warranting further research with larger cohorts and longer follow-up to establish comprehensive treatment guidelines.

Effects of Platelet-Rich Plasma Combined with Physical Therapy on IL-1β, TGF-β1, and MMP-3 in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis.

The occurrence of osteoarthritis in the knee joint is regulated by a complex network, and there is currently no specific therapeutic drug available. Functional exercises and treatments targeting inflammatory factors have shown the potential to alleviate knee osteoarthritis to some extent. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the intra-articular injection (IAI) of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combined with physical therapy (PT) in treating knee osteoarthritis. A total of 128 patients with knee osteoarthritis were included in the study, including 64 males and 64 females. A total of 128 patients were divided into sodium hyaluronate group (HA group), PRP group, PRP + PT group, and PT group, with 32 cases in each group. Visual analog scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) were employed to evaluate the recovery of patients from pain and osteoarthritis. Color Doppler ultrasound imaging technology was utilized to assess joint effusion, synovial membrane thickness, and articular cartilage thickness in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was employed to detect the levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and matrix metallopeptidase 3 (MMP-3) in the synovial fluid. Compared to the HA group, the PT group, PRP group, and PRP combined with PT (PRP + PT) group all showed reduced VAS and WOMAC scores, increased JOA scores, decreased joint effusion, synovial membrane thickness, and articular cartilage thickness in the knee joint. Additionally, levels of IL-1β and MMP-3 in the synovial fluid decreased, while TGF-β1 levels increased (P < 0.05). Compared with the PT group, the VAS and WOMAC scores of the knee joint in the PRP group decreased, JOA scores increased, joint effusion, synovial thickness, and articular cartilage thickness decreased, but there was no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05), and the PRP + PT group showed decreased VAS and WOMAC scores, increased JOA scores, reduced joint effusion, synovial membrane thickness, and articular cartilage thickness in the knee joint. Moreover, levels of IL-1β and MMP-3 in the synovial fluid decreased, while TGF-β1 levels increased (P < 0.05). No severe adverse reactions were observed in any of the four groups, but the pain rate in the PRP + TP group was significantly lower than PT group, PRP group, and PRP + PT group (P < 0.05). The efficacy of intra-articular injection of PRP combined with exercise therapy in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis is superior to that of single interventions such as simple interventions of HA, PRP injection, and PT. Furthermore, intra-articular injection of PRP combined with exercise therapy demonstrates enhanced effectiveness in improving the inflammatory levels associated with knee osteoarthritis and facilitating the rehabilitation process.

Effect of platelet-rich plasma injections versus placebo on pain and quality of life in patients with hip osteoarthritis: A double-blind, randomized clinical trial

Objectives: This study aims to compare the efficacy of intra-articular platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections over a saline placebo in terms of reduction of pain and impact on quality of life among patients with hip osteoarthritis. Patients and methods: A total of 60 patients (29 males, 31 females, mean age: 57.9±7.3 years; range, 47 to 69 years) with known hip osteoarthritis of Kellgren-Lawrance (KL) Grades 2/3 were randomized into placebo (n=30) and PRP groups (n=30) between June 2014 and June 2015. Both groups received intra-articular injections into the hip joint under ultrasound guidance for three consecutive weeks. The patients were followed for six months, and pain reduction was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) questionnaire, and Short Form Health Survey-36 (SF-36). Results: Intra-articular PRP treatment showed no advantage over a saline placebo in terms of VAS scores during activity. Both groups showed a significant improvement in VAS activity scores at one and six months. The placebo group showed improvements in VAS resting scores, whereas the PRP group did not. Both groups showed no improvement in WOMAC-total scores. Both groups showed no significant improvement across most SF-36 domains with the exception of improved physical role functioning at one month and general health at one and six months in the placebo group. Conclusion: Intra-articular injections of PRP show no significant difference compared to a saline placebo over a period of six months on pain, function, and quality of life scores in patients with hip osteoarthritis.

Intra-Articular Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been considered a promising treatment for musculoskeletal disorders. The effects of PRP on clinical outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) are controversial. To compare subjective outcomes and graft maturity in patients undergoing ACLR with and without postoperative intra-articular PRP injection. This surgeon- and investigator-masked randomized clinical trial included patients treated at a national medical center in China who were aged 16 to 45 years and scheduled to undergo ACLR. Participants were enrolled between March 21, 2021, and August 18, 2022, and followed up for 12 months, with the last participant completing follow-up on August 28, 2023. Participants were randomized 1:1 to the PRP group (n = 60), which received 3 doses of postoperative intra-articular PRP injection at monthly intervals, or to the control group (n = 60), which did not receive postoperative PRP injection. Both groups had the same follow-up schedule. The primary outcome was the mean score for 4 subscales of the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS4) (range, 0-100, with higher scores indicating better knee function and fewer symptoms) at 12 months postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were patient-reported outcomes, graft maturity (on magnetic resonance imaging), and physical examinations at 3, 6, and 12 months. Among the 120 randomized participants (mean [SD] age, 29.0 [8.0] years; 84 males [70%]), 114 (95%) were available for the primary outcome analysis. The mean KOOS4 scores at 12 months were 78.3 (SD, 12.0; 95% CI, 75.2-81.4) in the PRP group and 76.8 (SD, 11.9; 95% CI, 73.7-79.9) in the control group (adjusted mean between-group difference, 2.0; 95% CI, -2.3 to 6.3; P = .36). Secondary outcomes were not statistically significantly different between the 2 groups except for sports and recreation level and graft maturity at 6 months. Intervention-related adverse events included pain at the injection site and knee swelling after injection. In this randomized clinical trial among patients undergoing ACLR, the addition of postoperative intra-articular PRP injection did not result in superior improvement of knee symptoms and function at 12 months compared with no postoperative injection. Further studies are required to determine appropriate indications for PRP in musculoskeletal disorders. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry Identifier: ChiCTR2000040262.

Platelet-rich plasma alleviates neuropathic pain in osteoarthritis by downregulating microglial activation

BackgroundThe development of neuropathic pain (NP) is one of the reasons why the pain is difficult to treat, and microglial activation plays an important role in NP. Recently, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a novel therapeutic method for knee osteoarthritis (KOA). However, it’s unclarified whether PRP has analgesic effects on NP induced by KOA and the underlying mechanisms unknown.PurposeTo observe the analgesic effects of PRP on NP induced by KOA and explore the potential mechanisms of PRP in alleviating NP.MethodsKOA was induced in male rats with intra-articular injections of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) on day 0. The rats received PRP or NS (normal saline) treatment at days 15, 17, and 19 after modeling. The Von Frey and Hargreaves tests were applied to assess the pain-related behaviors at different time points. After euthanizing the rats with deep anesthesia at days 28 and 42, the corresponding tissues were taken for subsequent experiments. The expression of activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and ionized-calcium-binding adapter molecule-1(Iba-1) in the spinal dorsal horn (SDH) was detected by immunohistochemical staining. In addition, the knee histological assessment was performed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining.ResultsThe results indicated that injection of MIA induced mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia, which could be reversed by PRP treatment. PRP downregulated the expression of ATF3 within the DRG and Iba-1 within the SDH. Furthermore, an inhibitory effect on cartilage degeneration was observed in the MIA + PRP group only on day 28.ConclusionThese results indicate that PRP intra-articular injection therapy may be a potential therapeutic agent for relieving NP induced by KOA. This effect could be attributed to downregulation of microglial activation and reduction in nerve injury.

The varying clinical effectiveness of single, three and five intraarticular injections of platelet-rich plasma in knee osteoarthritis

ObjectiveTo investigate the variations in clinical effectiveness among patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis who underwent intra-articular administration of platelet-rich plasma using single, triple, or quintuple injections.MethodsOne hundred twenty patients with grade I-III knee osteoarthritis were randomly assigned to three groups: PRP1 group, who received a single injection of platelet-rich plasma; PRP3 group, who received three PRP injections one week apart; PRP5 group, who received five PRP injections one week apart. The patients’ conditions were evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index-VA3.1 version (WOMAC-VA3.1) at baseline and 6, 12, 24, and 52 weeks 52 weeks follow up.ResultsOut of the total participants, 106 patients (30 males and 76 females) completed the study. The primary outcome measure, WOMAC pain score, registered significant improvements across all groups when compared to pre-treatment levels. However, the application of 3 and 5 injections of platelet-rich plasma was substantially more effective than that of a single injection in reducing knee pain and stiffness, as well as enhancing physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. No statistically discernable difference was observed between PRP3 and PRP5 at all follow-up intervals, and there was no discernable difference between 3 and 5 PRP injections either. Mild side effects occurred in all three groups.ConclusionsThe administration of three or five injections of platelet-rich plasma is safe, substantially more effective than single injections, and leads to remarkable clinical improvement by significantly reducing knee pain, improving joint stiffness, and enhancing physical function in patients with grade I-III knee osteoarthritis. Furthermore, no significant difference was observed in the efficacy of three or five injections. Therefore, we recommend using three injections of PRP in the treatment of patients with knee osteoarthritis of grade I-III.

The Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection Therapy in Obese versus Non-Obese Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Comparative Study.

Background/Objectives: Obesity is a common comorbidity in knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injection therapy may mitigate KOA. To further clarify potential patient selection for PRP injection therapy, we compared the outcomes in patients with different body mass index (BMI). Methods: A total of 91 patients with mild to moderate KOA were treated with three intra-articular PRP injections at 10 to 14-day intervals. Range of motion (ROM), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were documented before and after the injections at 15 days, 6 months, 12 months, and at the last follow-up. Outcomes were compared between patients with a BMI over 30 kg/m2 (obese, n = 34) and under 30 kg/m2 (non-obese, n = 57). Results: Significant difference during the follow-up was detected in WOMAC score at the last follow-up favouring BMI under 30 group [17.8 ± 18.8 versus 10.5 ± 11.7, p = 0.023]. The odds ratio (OR) in BMI over 30 kg/m2 group for total knee arthroplasty was 3.5 (95% CI 0.3-40.1, p = 0.553), and OR for any arthroplasty was 7.5 (95% CI 0.8-69.8, p = 0.085) compared to non-obese patients. Conclusions: Obese patients benefitted from PRP injections in KOA but there is a minimal difference favouring non-obese patients in symptom alleviation in follow-up stages after 12 months. The risk of arthroplasty is higher for obese KOA patients.

Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatments of Horizontal Meniscal Tears: A Comparative Analysis

Background: Meniscus injuries remain the most common indication for orthopedic surgery. Due to advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the number of patients diagnosed with meniscus injuries that do not extend into the articular surface has increased. Although treatments of complete meniscal tears are defined, treatment of meniscus injuries that do not extend into the articular surface is not clear yet.Objective: To determine the most optimal way of delivering platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into the knee joint for treatment of meniscus injuries (not extending into the articular surface) so that patients would improve clinically, and it would have also an effect on the meniscus shown on MRI.Materials and methods: We studied treatment results in 87 patients (50 men and 37 women). The patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 received an ultrasound-guided PRP injection into the posterior horn, and group 2 received a standard intra-articular PRP injection via the superolateral approach. The treatment efficacy was assessed using visual analog scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) index, Lysholm score, and Knee Society Score (KSS). We also assessed changes on MRI 6 and 12 months after treatment.Results: The comparative analysis demonstrated that based on the findings of scores and MRI the ultrasound-guided intrameniscal PRP injection is more effective.Conclusions: Our results show that the intrameniscal PRP injection is a more effective and safe way to treat such meniscus injuries.

Prognostic Factors in Intra-articular Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Comparative Analysis of Responders and Nonresponders.

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a chronic joint disease affecting activities of daily living (ADL) and quality of life due to pain and limited range of motion, afflicting a large number of patients worldwide. However, it is difficult to prevent the progression of the disease. Therapeutic strategies for KOA aim to maintain ADL and QOL by alleviating pain or managing locomotive function. Recently, intra-articular injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been gaining attention. In this study, the clinical results of PRP treatment in our institution were reported and compared between responders and non-responders using patient characteristics and imaging data assessed from plain X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Participants in the study were KOA patients with varus deformity assessed as grade 2 or higher in the Kellgren-Lawrence classification who received PRP treatment from January 2022 to November 2023 and were followed up for at least three months. PRP was prepared with 27 mL of blood collected from the patient, and 2.7 mL of PRP was prepared using the PEAK©︎PRP System from DePuy Synthes (Raynham, MA). Intra-articular injections of PRP were performed under echo-guided procedures, and responders or non-responders were determined using the Osteoarthritis Research Society International Standing Committee for Clinical Trials Response Criteria Initiative (OMERACT-OARSI) criteria evaluated by the Japanese Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (J-KOOS) at three months after PRP injection. The clinical efficacy of PRP treatment for KOA was assessed in this study, and a dichotomous analysis was performed comparing the responder group and the non-responder group using patient characteristics and assessed data from plain X-ray images and MRI to determine prognostic factors for PRP treatment. The study population included 36 knees with a mean age of 70.6. ± 9.2 years, comprising six knees in men and 30 knees in women. The responder group consisted of16 knees (44.4%), and the non-responder group consisted of 20 knees (55.6%).J-KOOS subscores at pre-treatment elicited that each subscale in the R group was significantly lower than that in the NR group at pretreatment. A dichotomous analysis for the two groups revealed the distribution of sex and past medical history of hyperlipidemia to be significantly different between the two groups. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that the coexistence of hyperlipidemia was the main prognostic factor for the efficacy of PRP therapy. In this study, comparisons were conducted between responders and non-responders to estimate prognostic factors for the efficacy of PRP therapy. Surprisingly, responders to the treatment tended to show lower J-KOOS scores and to have hyperlipidemia. A literature review revealed conflicting reports on prognostic factors for PRP therapy in KOA, highlighting the need for further research.

Лечение гонартроза с применением аутологической обогащенной тромбоцитами плазмы

Injections of platelet-rich plasma are considered to be a promising treatment. Medicines acting on the subchondral bone can improve tissue's structure and slow down destruction of the articular cartilage. This study aimed to analyze the results of intraarticular and intraosseous administration of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in gonarthrosis cases. One hundred and eighty-seven participants (gonarthrosis stages 1 through 3) were divided into three groups. Group 1 (treatment group) received intraarticular PRP injections, group 2 (comparison group) — intraosseous PRP injections. For assessment purposes, we used the SF-36 survey and visual analog scale. Three months after the treatment, initial pain level decreased in both groups 1 and 2. In group 1, the prevalence of synovitis went down after 3 months, in group 2 — after 6 months (21.9 and 31.3%, respectively; p &lt; 0.05). Six months after the treatment, soft tissue swelling around the joint was registered less often in groups 1 and 2 (8.2 and 8.3%, respectively). As for the physical component of the quality of life, it improved in group 1 after 3 months (70.40%), in group 2 — after 6 months (69.80%); as for the mental component, the dynamics was acknowledged positive 3 months after the treatment in groups 1 and 2 (64.30 and 65.10%, respectively), and 6 months after the treatment (65.10 and 66.40%, respectively). Thus, administration of PRP in gonarthrosis cases attenuate pain and improves the quality of life. In terms of alleviation of the clinical symptoms and improvement of the physical component of patients' lives, intraosseous PRP injections performed significantly better.

Effects of intra-articular injection of platelet-rich plasma on the inflammatory process and histopathological characteristics of cartilage and synovium in animals with osteoarthritis: a systematic review with meta-analysis

BackgroundOsteoarthritis (OA) affects the entire joint, causing structural changes in articular cartilage, subchondral bone, ligaments, capsule, synovial membrane, and periarticular muscles that afflicts millions of people globally, leading to persistent pain and diminished quality of life. The intra-articular use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is gaining recognition as a secure therapeutic approach due to its potential regenerative capabilities. However, there is controversial clinical data regarding efficacy of PRP for OA treatment. In this context, gathering scientific evidence on the effects of PRP in treating OA in animal models could provide valuable insights into understanding its impact on aspects like cartilage health, synovial tissue integrity, and the inflammatory process in affected joints. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the effects of PRP injections on inflammation and histopathological aspects of cartilage and synovium in animal models of OA through a comprehensive systematic review with meta-analysis.MethodsA electronic search was conducted on Medline, Embase, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, LILACS, and SciELO databases for relevant articles published until June 2022. A random-effects meta-analysis was employed to synthesize evidence on the histological characteristics of cartilage and synovium, as well as the inflammatory process. The GRADE approach was utilized to categorize the quality of evidence, and methodological quality was assessed using SYRCLE’s RoB tool.ResultsTwenty-one studies were included in the review, with twelve of them incorporated into the meta-analysis. PRP treatment demonstrated superior outcomes compared to the control group in terms of cartilage histology (very low quality; p = 0.0002), synovium histology (very low quality; p < 0.0001), and reductions in proinflammatory markers, including IL-1 (low quality; p = 0.002), IL-6 (very low quality; p < 0.00001), and TNF-α (very low; p < 0.00001). However, PRP treatment did not yield a significant impact on PDGF-A levels (very low quality; p = 0.81).ConclusionPRP appears capable of reducing proinflammatory markers (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α) and mitigating cartilage and synovium damage in animals with OA. However, the levels of evidence of these findings are low to very low. Therefore, more rigorous studies with larger samples are needed to improve the quality of evidence.PROSPERO registrationCRD42022250314

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.

Use of platelet-rich plasma isolated or in combination in osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint: a systematic review

Introduction: Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ-OA) is a common disease in the oral and maxillofacial regions and is the most serious type. Among temporomandibular disorders, TMJ-OA accounts for 18% to 85% of all cases. The use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been highlighted, as well as in combination with other types of treatments such as hyaluronic acid, arthrocentesis, and corticosteroids. Objective: to highlight the main clinical outcomes of the treatment of osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint through the injectable use of platelet-rich plasma, alone or in combination with other types of treatment. Methods: The research and development of the work were carried out from December 2023 to February 2024 in the databases Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, and Scielo, using scientific articles from 2013 to 2023, following the PRISMA rules. The quality of the studies was based on the GRADE instrument and the risk of bias was based on the Cochrane instrument (Funnel Plot). Results and Conclusion: A total of 178 studies were found that were subjected to eligibility analysis. The final sample had 45 eligible studies and 31 studies were described in the systematic review. Most studies showed homogeneity in their results, with X2 =66.7% &gt;50%, with p&lt;0.05. The symmetric funnel plot did not suggest a risk of bias among studies with a small sample size. The results showed that platelet-rich plasma performed better than hyaluronic acid in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint during longterm follow-up in terms of reducing pain and increasing interincisal distance. Combined injection of hyaluronic acid and platelet-rich plasma after arthrocentesis is more effective than hyaluronic acid or platelet-rich plasma alone in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the temporomandibular joint, as well as platelet-rich plasma with hyaluronic acid after arthrocentesis showed significant clinical efficacy long-term concerning pain relief. Furthermore, it was found that intra-articular injections of platelet-rich plasma reduced pain on palpation of the temporomandibular joint more effectively compared to hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids. Platelet-rich plasma injection can significantly improve pain, mouth opening, abnormal joint sound, and jaw function in patients with temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis, and has a good repair effect on condylar bone defects. Furthermore, platelet-rich plasma injection combined with physical therapy can effectively control medium and long-term pain in patients.

A comparison of intra-articular hyaluronic acid and platelet-rich plasma for knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review.

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA), the most common chronic degenerative condition in an older population, accounts for many disabilities around the world. One of the most popular treatments is intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid (HA) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Prior studies have found that both HA and PRP had a therapeutic effect on KOA. This study aims to perform a systematic review regarding whether PRP is superior to HA for KOA. We conducted a comprehensive literature search using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines for prospective randomized control trials (pRCTs) in three international databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect from 2019-2022. Two researchers independently searched the reviews, extracted, and cross-checked the data. The disparity when choosing the literature was resolved by discussion. The modified Jadad was scale used to assess the quality of the included studies. Cochrane risk of bias 2 tool (RoB-2) was used for determininzg risk of bias. Twenty three studies were eligible for inclusion. Four pRCT with the highest Jadad score were selected as best evidence. Risk of bias assesment concluded two studies having a low risk of bias, one is high risk of bias, and the other possesses some concerns.. Three studies found no difference in patient-reported outcomes between PRP and HA group and one study concluded that PRP is more effective than HA in treating KOA. Intra-articular injections of PRP and HA are effective interventions for KOA. However, there is not enough evidence of PRP superiority over HA.

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.

MRI-based cartilage changes and clinical effectiveness of autologous intra-articular platelet-rich plasma injections in symptomatic patients with moderate osteoarthritis of the knee

BackgroundAn autologous blood product containing a high percentage of various growth factors, cytokines, and modulating factors such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is thought to play a role in chondral remodeling by promoting the production of cartilage matrix molecules and repairing and regenerating articular cartilage. In symptomatic patients with moderate osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, we aimed to investigate MRI-based cartilage changes and the clinical efficacy of autologous intra-articular PRP injections.ResultsThirty-three patients with grades 2 and 3 OA of knees as per Kellgren and Lawrence OA classification underwent three consecutive PRP injections at monthly intervals. These patients were followed up monthly for the first 3 months, and then after every 3 months at 6 months, 9 months, and 12 months. There was statistically significant improvement in joint pain and functionality with the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores showing a reduction from 7 ± 2 at baseline to 2.76 ± 1.34 at 12 months and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index Score (WOMAC) scores declining from 77.91 ± 1 1.6 at baseline to 23.61 ± 19.1 at 12 months (p < 0.05). The reduction in VAS and WOMAC scores was maximum during the first 3 months after PRP therapy. MRI showed a statistically insignificant improvement in cartilage thickness [Whole Organ Magnetic Resonance Imaging Score (WORMS) 3.15 ± 1.41 to 3.3 ± 0.84) (p > 0.05)].ConclusionsPRP had a positive effect on pain alleviation and patient functioning, but there was no significant change in articular cartilage as measured by MRI.

Comparison of a Novel Periarticular Injection Technique with Intra-articular Injection of Platelet-rich Plasma for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis Joint Pain in Dogs

Canine osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by degenerative changes in the joints resulting in pain and lameness. The study objective was to compare treatment of OA with a novel peri-articular injection (aqua-acupuncture/aqua-AP) technique using platelet-rich plasma (PRP), with standard intra-articular (IA) injection. Sixteen dogs diagnosed with OA in appendicular skeletal joints were enrolled and assigned to Test (n=8) or Control (n=8) treatment groups. Each subject received an injection at Week 0 and again at Week 4. Treatment outcomes assessed included goniometry (flexion and extension), infrared thermal imaging (IRTI), lameness grading scores and Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) questionnaire. The flexion and extension assessments had no statistically significant changes at 4 or 8-week assessment. Significant score reductions (improvement) were observed in both groups (p&lt;0.001) for pain severity (2, 4, 8 weeks) and activity interference (2, 4, 8 weeks) for CBPI data with no significant difference between study groups concluded (p&gt;0.05). Infrared thermal imaging demonstrated statistically significant (p&lt;0.001), decreased temperature in the inflamed joints for both injection techniques, however, aqua-AP treatment was statistically significant at both 4 and 8 weeks while IA technique didn’t reach significance until 8 weeks post-treatment. Lameness scores had significant improvements at 4 and 8 weeks with no significant difference between groups. The findings suggest that PurePRP® treatment delivered with either the proposed aqua-AP or the standard IA injection may improve pain and thermal outcomes (decrease joint inflammation) with more rapid thermal improvement for aqua-AP. There were no clear effects on goniometry measurements. Further investigations with larger scale trials are warranted.

Effects of Intra-Articular Platelet Rich Plasma on Clinical Outcomes in Knee Osteoarthritis

Background and Aim: With increasing frequency, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) preparations have been used to treatcartilage lesions to regenerate tissue homeostasis and retard the progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA). The aimof our research was to study the effectiveness of intra-articular PRP injections in early-stage OA patients and toevaluate the clinical outcome and QOL at 6 months.Material and Methods: Present study was conducted on 80 patients at tertiary care institute of Gujarat for thePeriod of 1 year. Intraarticular administration of PRP was done by injecting 5 mL of platelet concentrate in thesupra-patellar pouch through supero-lateral approach with a 22-gauge needle. The patients were followed upfor reduction in pain, reduction in stiffness and improvement in physical function in accordance with WOMACscoring system on day 0 and at the end of 6th week, 3rd and 6th months and QOL in accordance with WHOQOLquestionnaire before PRP therapy and at the end of 6th month.Results: In our study of 80 patients 26 had very poor, 23 had poor and 1 had neither poor nor good QOL beforePRP injection evaluated by WHOQOL. At 6 months post PRP therapy 5 had very good, 59 had good, 15 hadneither good nor poor and 1 had poor QOL which showed highly significant improvement in QOL.Conclusion: Intra-articular injection of autologous PRP is a safe, cheap, easy to prepare and use, and has atherapeutic role in early knee OA. Hence, PRP therapy can be used in management of early stage knee OA toprovide relief from symptoms and to improve QOL with negligible complication, low cost and ultimately withgood results.

КЛИНИЧЕСКИЙ СЛУЧАЙ УСПЕШНОЙ ДИАГНОСТИКИ И ЛЕЧЕНИЯ ГНОЙНОГО ЭПИДУРИТА, ОСЛОЖНЕННОГО СЕПСИСОМ, ПОСЛЕ ИНТРААРТИКУЛЯРНОГО ВВЕДЕНИЯ АУТОПЛАЗМЫ

Background. Currently, intra-articular injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are becoming increasingly popular as a technically simple and effective method of osteoarthritis treatment. However, this clinical case would demonstrate that this procedure could lead to severe complications. Purpose of the study. Our aim is to describe a clinical case in which PRP injections led to the development of a generalized infection resulting in purulent polyarthritis, epiduritis and sepsis in a patient with a previous odontogenic infection. Material and methods. Clinical manifestations, results of laboratory and instrumental studies, anamnesis and medical documentation were analyzed. Results. After intra-articular injection of PRP the patient developed purulent polyarthritis and spondylodiscitis resulting in purulent epiduritis and sepsis. The patient was diagnosed with extensive dental caries which had caused transient bacteremia, and then PRP injections helped to the transfer of infection from the blood to the joint cavities. Conclusions. Before undergoing intra-articular PRP injections the patient should be carefully assessed for the presence of infection.

Efficacy of Intra-articular Concentrated Growth Factor, Platelet-Rich Plasma, and Hyaluronic Acid in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Comparative Analysis

Objective: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a prevalent chronic joint condition causing substantial pain and disability. In recent years, intra-articular injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), concentrated growth factor (CGF), and hyaluronic acid (HA) have emerged as promising KOA therapies. We aimed to compare the effects of intra-articular CGF, PRP, and HA in KOA patients. Materials and Methods: Patients diagnosed with KOA and who were grade 2-3 according to the Kellgreen-Lawrence classification in radiological imaging were included in the study. Patients were randomized into three groups receiving a single injection of either HA, PRP, or CGF. Patients were evaluated for pain scores using the visual analog scale (VAS) and for pain, stiffness, and physical function using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) before and 1 and 6 months after the procedure. Results: Of 60 patients, 41 were female and 19 were male. According to the Kellgren-Lawrence classification, 27 patients had grade II and 33 patients had grade III KOA, with a similar distribution among the three groups. The VAS scores showed a statistically significant decrease in all groups at 1-month and 6-month follow-up compared to pre-procedural scores. However, there was no significant difference among the groups in terms of VAS scores. The WOMAC-pain, -stiffness, -physical function scores also showed a significant decrease in all groups at 1-month and 6-month follow-up compared to pre-procedural scores. The CGF group had the lowest WOMAC scores at both time points, with a statistically significant difference compared to the PRP group (p&lt;0.05). Patient satisfaction rates were high in all groups, while the satisfaction rate was highest in the CGF group. Conclusion: CGF demonstrated superior pain alleviation and functional improvement compared to PRP and HA. Although the results of this study demonstrate the potential of regenerative treatments for KOA, more research with larger samples and longer follow-up is needed for robust validation. Additionally, the standardization of treatment protocols is important.