CLINICAL OUTCOME OF PLATELET–RICH PLASMA (PRP) INJECTIONS IN EARLY KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS

Abstract

Background: Knee osteoarthritis is a common degenerative joint disease that significantly affects quality of life. In recent years, Platelet–Rich Plasma (PRP) has gained attention as a potential biological therapy for managing early stages of osteoarthritis.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of PRP intra-articular injections in patients with grade I and II knee osteoarthritis.

Methods: This retrospective study included patients diagnosed with early knee osteoarthritis who received three intra-articular PRP injections administered one month apart. Clinical evaluation was performed before treatment and subsequently at 3, 6, and 9 months of follow-up. Pain, stiffness, and functional outcomes were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores.

Results: Significant improvement was observed in both VAS and WOMAC scores at all follow-up intervals compared to baseline. Patients reported a reduction in pain and stiffness, along with improved functional mobility. The most notable improvements were seen within the first six months, with sustained benefits observed up to nine months. No major adverse effects related to PRP injections were reported during the follow-up period.

Conclusion: PRP intra-articular injections provide an effective short-term treatment for patients with grade I and II knee osteoarthritis. The therapy significantly alleviates pain, reduces stiffness, and enhances joint function, making it a safe and beneficial intervention for early-stage disease. However, further prospective studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are warranted to validate long-term efficacy.