Effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma versus Intra-articular Steroid Injections in Advanced Knee Osteoarthritis – A Prospective Observational Study from Eastern India
Abstract
Introduction: Intra-articular corticosteroids have shown promise for longer-lasting benefits in knee osteoarthritis (OA), but with limited evidence from Indian context. This study compared pain and functional outcomes at 6 months following PRP versus steroid injections in OA patients.
Materials and methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in eastern India from January to December 2023. Patients aged ≥50 years with Kellgren-Lawrence Grade I to III OA were enrolled and allocated to platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or steroid groups based on preference and feasibility. Patients were followed at one, three and six months. Pain and function were evaluated by visual analogue scale (VAS), and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), respectively.
Results: 140 patients were enrolled- 70 in the PRP group (50%) and 70 in the steroid group (50%). Mean age of participants was 61.8±7.9 years, majority female (n=82, 58.6%). The PRP group demonstrated greater and more sustained reduction in pain compared to the steroid group at 3 and 6 months The mean VAS score in the PRP group was lower by 1.5 (1.0 to 2.0) and 1.7 (1.2 to 2.3), respectively, during end of third and six months compared to the steroid groups. Similarly, WOMAC score was lower in the PRP group by 7.8 (4.7 to 10.9) and 9.2 (5.9 to 12.5) at the same time.
Conclusion: PRP and steroid injections both improved outcomes in advanced OA, with PRP showing superior and sustained benefits at 6 months. Steroids offered quicker but shorter relief.
Abstract | Reference
