Single- and Double-Dose of Platelet-Rich Plasma Versus Hyaluronic Acid for Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Patel S · World Journal of Orthopedics (2013)
DOI: 10.5312/wjo.v4.i3.134This RCT compared single-dose PRP, double-dose PRP, and hyaluronic acid in 78 patients with bilateral knee osteoarthritis. Patients served as their own controls, reducing inter-patient variability. The double-dose PRP group achieved a 100% responder rate versus 0% in the HA group at final follow-up, a striking result. Single-dose PRP also outperformed HA but with a smaller margin.
Clinical Relevance
Provides early evidence of a dose-response effect for PRP in knee OA and strong support for PRP over HA. The bilateral design adds internal validity. Clinicians should consider adequate dosing rather than minimal single injections.
Key Takeaways
- Double-dose PRP achieved 100% responder rate vs 0% HA (dramatic difference)
- Single-dose PRP also superior to HA
- Bilateral design (each patient received both treatments) reduces confounders
- Dose-response relationship clearly demonstrated
- One of the earliest studies showing PRP superiority over HA for knee OA
Key Findings
PRP resulted in significantly better WOMAC and VAS scores than HA at 12 weeks (p<0.001). Double-dose PRP (100% responder rate) was superior to single-dose PRP (86%) and HA (0%).
Clinical Context
Study Design
Randomized Controlled Trial
Condition
Bilateral Knee Osteoarthritis
Sample Size
78 patients
Follow-up
3 months
Control Group
Hyaluronic Acid (Hyalgan)
Primary Outcome
WOMAC Pain Subscale
PRP Protocol & Intervention
Preparation System
Rooyagen Kit
Injection Frequency
2 injection(s)
Injection Interval
3-week interval