Comparative Evaluation of Efficacy of Autogenous Platelet Rich Plasma Versus Viscosupplementation in Treatment of Early Osteoarthritis of Knee

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease, particularly in older adults, resulting in pain, disability, and reduced quality of life. Early-stage OA can benefit from non-surgical treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and hyaluronic acid (HA). Objective: This study aims to compare the efficacy of autogenous PRP versus HA injections in managing pain, improving function, and enhancing patient satisfaction in early knee OA (Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1 and 2). Method: A total of 122 patients diagnosed with early knee OA were randomly assigned to receive either PRP or HA injections. Each patient received three injections at three-week intervals. Pain was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and functional improvement was assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Patient satisfaction was evaluated via a self-reported questionnaire at baseline, 3-, 6-, and 12-months post-treatment. Results: At 12 months, both groups demonstrated significant improvements in pain and function. The PRP group showed a 40% reduction in VAS scores and a 35% improvement in WOMAC scores, while the HA group showed a 30% reduction in VAS and a 25% improvement in WOMAC. Patient satisfaction was higher in the PRP group, with 80% reporting significant improvement compared to 65% in the HA group. Conclusions: PRP injections provided superior pain relief, functional improvement, and patient satisfaction compared to HA injections, suggesting PRP as a more effective treatment for early knee OA.