Comparison of two platelet rich plasma formulations with viscosupplementation in treatment of moderate grade gonarthrosis: A prospective randomized controlled study

Background: The success of platelet rich plasma (PRP) applications in conservative treatment of moderate gonarthrosis has increased over time. Two different PRP formulations that buffy coat (Leukocyte rich PRP: LR-PRP) and plasma-based (Leukocyte poor PRP: LP-PRP) are obtained by different centrifugation methods. This prospective randomized trial was whether LP-PRP will be more effective combination for moderate gonarthrosis when compared to LR-PRP or HA.

Methods: A total 90 patients suffering from moderate knee osteoarthritis were enrolled. Patients were divided equally into three groups and treated with 3 times LR-PRP, LP-PRP and HA injections. A prospective evaluation was done at baseline, and then at 2, 6 and 12 months of follow-up using VAS, WOMAC and Likert scoring systems.

Results: The 2nd, 6th and 12th month VAS and WOMAC scores of LR-PRP demonstrated the most obvious improvement. Recurrence of symptoms was statistically lower (3; 10%) in LR-PRP group (p < 0.001). Male gender had lower recurrence rate than females (1 vs. 18; p = 0.043). Only high BMI had statistically negative effect on recovery and recurrence rates (p = 0.004). Local adverse effects were more common in LR-PRP group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: PRP injections produced superior results than HA. LR-PRP seems to be the most effective treatment modality for moderate gonarthrosis especially in normal weighted men at the 6th decade of age.