Platelet-Rich Plasma Intra-articular Knee Injections for the Treatment of Degenerative Cartilage Lesions and Osteoarthritis
Filardo G · Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy (2011)
DOI: 10.1007/s00167-010-1238-6This prospective cohort study by the prolific Filardo group followed 91 patients with knee cartilage degeneration or OA treated with three PRP injections at 2-week intervals. With 24 months of follow-up, the study documented significant early improvement (IKDC, VAS) that peaked around 12 months but showed some decline by 24 months, though still above baseline. This was one of the first longer-term follow-up studies for PRP in knee OA.
Clinical Relevance
Important for counseling patients that PRP benefits for knee OA may peak around 12 months and begin to fade, potentially requiring repeat treatment cycles. Patient selection (younger, lower KL grade) matters for outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- Significant improvement in IKDC and VAS scores at 6 and 12 months
- Some efficacy decline between 12 and 24 months, though still improved from baseline
- Three injections at 2-week intervals (shorter than typical weekly protocol)
- Younger patients and earlier OA grades responded better
- One of the earliest studies suggesting PRP benefit duration may be 12 to 18 months
Key Findings
PRP injections reduced pain and improved knee function and quality of life with short-term efficacy up to 12 months, though benefits diminished at 24 months.
Clinical Context
Study Design
Prospective Cohort Study
Condition
Degenerative Cartilage Lesions and Osteoarthritis
Sample Size
91 patients
Follow-up
24 months
Control Group
None (single-arm)
Primary Outcome
IKDC Subjective Score, EQ-VAS
PRP Protocol & Intervention
Leukocyte Status
LR-PRP
Spin Protocol
Double-spinning protocol
Injection Volume
5 mL
Injection Frequency
3 injection(s)
Injection Interval
Every 2-3 weeks