Can Platelet-rich Plasma Injection Help Avoid Replacement Surgery in Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

Introduction: Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a chronic degenerative condition where pain is the predominant symptom. The most important reason for replacement surgery in advanced OA of the knee is pain. But pain may persist even after total knee arthroplasty in about 20% situation. Clinicians are searching an easier alternative to knee arthroplasty.

Materials and methods: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a new modality of treatment which helps in regeneration and relieves pain. It has been used successfully in injured and degenerated tissues. It has been used successfully in knee OA too. Most studies indicate it as an excellent modality and superior to hyaluronic acid (HA) injection in the knee. Some studies indicate that the combination of PRP and HA is even better than PRP alone.

Discussion: Inspired by recent studies on PRP, question is raised on whether PRP injection can help avoid replacement surgery? But unless more studies with PRP are conducted on advanced OA, we cannot comment on this based on the available literature.

Keywords: Osteoarthritis of the knee, Platelet-rich plasma, Total replacement of the knee.