Platelet-Rich Plasma Intra-articular Injections for Cartilage Degeneration and Osteoarthritis: Single- Versus Double-Spinning Approach
Filardo G · Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy (2012)
DOI: 10.1007/s00167-012-2012-zThis RCT from the Filardo group compared single-spinning versus double-spinning PRP preparation methods in 144 patients with knee OA. Both groups received three injections at 2-week intervals. The single-spin (lower platelet concentration, fewer leukocytes) produced comparable clinical outcomes to double-spin (higher concentration, more leukocytes) but with significantly fewer adverse events such as pain and swelling post-injection.
Clinical Relevance
Clinically important for protocol selection: in knee OA, a simpler single-spin preparation may be equally effective and better tolerated than complex double-spin protocols. This aligns with the broader trend favoring LP-PRP for intra-articular joint applications.
Key Takeaways
- Single-spin and double-spin PRP produced similar clinical outcomes
- Single-spin had significantly fewer post-injection adverse events (pain, swelling)
- Double-spin concentrates more leukocytes, which may drive the inflammatory side effects
- Both groups improved significantly from baseline
- Suggests leukocyte-rich preparations may not be necessary for knee OA and may cause more adverse reactions
Key Findings
Both PRP preparation methods showed significant clinical improvement at 12 months. Single-spinning (LP-PRP) resulted in less post-injection pain and swelling.
Clinical Context
Study Design
Randomized Controlled Trial
Condition
Cartilage Degeneration and Osteoarthritis
Sample Size
144 patients
Follow-up
12 months
Control Group
Single-spinning PRP vs Double-spinning PRP
Primary Outcome
IKDC Subjective Score, EQ-VAS, Tegner Score
PRP Protocol & Intervention
Preparation System
Manual (Two centrifugation protocols)
Leukocyte Status
LR-PRP vs LP-PRP
Spin Protocol
Single-spinning vs Double-spinning
Injection Frequency
3 injection(s)
Injection Interval
Every 2-3 weeks