Effects of Intra-articular Platelet Rich Plasma on Cartilage Thickness, Clinical and Functional Outcomes in Knee Osteoarthritis

Background: Osteoarthritis of the knee is one of the most common degenerative diseases and the fourth leading cause of years lived with disability at the global level. This study assessed the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in osteoarthritis of knees as to changes in cartilage thickness and clinical and functional outcomes. Methods: Thirty participants with Kellgren-Lawrence grade two and grade three osteoarthritis knee who satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled in this prospective interventional study after taking written informed consent. Each participant received three doses of two ml intraarticular platelet-rich plasma at an interval of seven days. Clinical assessment was determined using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) on Day 0, Day 90, and Day 180. Cartilage thickness (femoral and trochlear cartilage) was measured pre (Day 0) and post-PRP (Day 180) under ultrasound guidance. Results: The mean VAS score for pain was 7.4 before treatment which changed to 5.3 (p= <0.0001) on Day 90 and 3.37 (p= <0.0001) on Day 180 post-PRP. The mean total KOOS was 19.16 ± 10.73 before treatment which improved to 37.42 ± 9.88 (p= <0.0001) and 49.98 ± 8.82 (p= <0.0001) at 90 days, and 180 days post-injection, respectively. The mean cartilage thickness (femoral and trochlear cartilage) improved from baseline (day 0) to final follow-up on day 180, which was statistically significant and implied cartilage repair following PRP administration. Conclusion: This study supports the efficacy of PRP in the management of osteoarthritis knee by improvement in pain, joint stiffness, and activities of daily living, as well as aids in the repair and regeneration of articular cartilage.