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Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objective The objective of this study was to compare intra-articular injections (IAIs) of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and corticosteroid injections in reducing pain and studying which has a more effective and lasting functional improvement. Patients and methods A total of 60 patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren–Lawrence grades 3 and 4) were enrolled in this study. Patients were randomized to treatment either with a single leukocyte-rich PRP or corticosteroid IAIs. Patients were assessed by visual analog scale, and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment. Results Our results showed improvement in all variables in both groups. Statistical differences between groups were found for the majority of the outcome variables, and the degree of improvement was more in the PRP group. Conclusion IAI of PRP is effective for relieving pain and improving activities of daily living and quality of life in old patients with late-stage knee osteoarthritis. IAI of one shot of corticosteroid has similar results but for a short term and with more side effects.

Keywords

Intra-articular injections, knee, osteoarthritis, platelet-rich plasma

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