Clinical and Functional Outcome Following Platelet Rich Plasma inManagement of Knee-Osteo Arthritis

Abstract

Introduction: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a leading cause of chronic disability globally, with a rising prevalence due to aging populations, sedentary lifestyles, and obesity. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has emerged as a promising treatment modality, offering both symptomatic relief and regenerative potential. This study evaluates the clinical and functional outcomes of PRP therapy in managing mild-to-moderate KOA in Bangladesh. Methods & Materials: A prospective study was conducted at the Department of Orthopedics, Combined Military Hospital, Savar, Bangladesh, over a 6-month period. Thirty participants with mild-to-moderate KOA were included based on clinical and radiological assessments. PRP was prepared from autologous blood using standardized protocols and administered intra-articularly at predefined intervals. Outcomes were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) for functional disability, and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) for joint function. Patient satisfaction was also recorded. Results: Statistically significant improvements were observed across all outcome measures. The VAS pain score decreased by 57.3%, the WOMAC total score improved by 46.1%, and the KOOS function score increased by 62.0% over the study period. Additionally, 76.7% of participants reported satisfaction with the treatment outcomes, while only 3.3% expressed dissatisfaction. Conclusion: PRP therapy demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing pain, improving function, and enhancing patient satisfaction in mild-to-moderate KOA. These findings highlight the potential of PRP as a cost-effective, minimally invasive alternative to conventional therapies and surgical interventions, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Further research is warranted to optimize protocols and evaluate long-term outcomes.