What is the Efficacy of Intra-Articular Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis in Clinical Practice? A "Real-Life" Prospective Cohort.

Abstract

Introduction: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may improve symptoms in patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis. However, there is a lack of data on its effectiveness in a "real-life" cohort. This multi-site institutional registry study aimed to assess patients' longitudinal progress after PRP injection for knee osteoarthritis.

Materials and methods: All patients receiving PRP injections for knee osteoarthritis at a large, integrated tertiary academic center (December 18, 2017 to March 1, 2021) were eligible. A prospective data collection instrument was used to collect patient demographics, procedural information, and patient-reported outcome measures. Overall, 97 patients met the inclusion criteria, and 53 were included in the analysis.

Results: One in four patients (26%) improved on all three Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score subscales: 17% in two subscales and 20% in one subscale, respectively. Overall, 64% of patients improved in at least one patient-reported outcomes measure. At six months post injection, 49% of patients were satisfied.

Conclusion: PRP injection provides positive changes in two out of three patients in different magnitudes and characteristics with careful attention to clinically meaningful differences.