Putting Technology in Practice: A Success Story of Creativity

Goal The purpose of this study was to ascertain the regenerative qualities of intra-articular injections of autologous PRP rich Plasma (PRP) growth factors in knee osteoarthritis patients (KOA), as well as the relationship between clinical improvement and platelet count and transforming growth factor-1 (TGF-β1). Context Although platelets are crucial for both primary and second- ary hemostasis, little is known about their capacity for regeneration. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative process of cartilage. There is no therapy that can enhance this process. Patients and techniques Following the failure of conservative treatment, 28 patients with primary knee OA grades II and III received PRP preparation injections. Following two injections spaced three weeks apart, patients were monitored for six months using radiography and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Ar- thritis Index. To verify platelet activation and release and assess their contribution to the condition's recovery, platelet count and TGF-β1 were assessed in PRP. Outcomes All Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index criteria had greatly improved by the end of the follow-up period, and no adverse events had been observed. Patients with less cartilage deterioration showed better outcomes (P = 0.004). When compared to their basal level, platelets and TGF-β1 demonstrated a significantly significant rise in PRP (P < 0.001). TGF-β1 and platelet counts in PRP were statistically greater in patients who had a favourable response. TGF-β1 had a cutoff concentration of 128.25 ng/ml, whereas platelet count in PRP had a cutoff of 1001.25 × 109/l to predict a favorable response to PRP. Conclusion Growth factors for cartilage healing and renovation can be delivered safely, minimally invasively, and affordably through intra-articular injection using autologous PRP. As a result, it is helpful in treating KOA with the goal of lowering pain and enhancing knee function and quality of life. TGF-β1 level in PRP and platelet count are significant indicators of progress.