Biological Implications of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection for The Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Review

ABSTRACTOsteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic musculoskeletal condition that commonly affects the knee and other joints. The disability associated with OA results in a considerable economic burden particularly joint replacement surgery and job-related loss of productivity. Until now, most cures research has focused on treatments to reduce pain and prevent functional decline. Analgesics and anti-inflammatory have short-term clinical benefits with some effect sizes which are generally small to moderate. Intra-articular therapies for OA (such as Hyaluronic Acid and corticosteroids) are also proposed but their benefits are limited to a few weeks. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection into the affected joint is receiving increasing interest such as biologic therapy for OA. Current variability in the numerous PRP preparation and injection protocol in addition to considerable heterogeneity between studies make it difficult to establish recommendations regarding which type of PRP to use and for which indications. This manuscript will advance a systematic review of biological effect of PRP as a treatment for knee OA. Keywords: Platelet-Rich Plasma – Biological implications – Injection Protocol - knee osteoarthritis