Abstract
Objective The present study aimed to compare the effects of intraarticular infiltration of
platelet-rich plasma with those of hyaluronic acid infiltration in the treatment of
patients with primary knee osteoarthritis.
Methods A randomized clinical trial was conducted with 29 patients who received an intraarticular
infiltration with hyaluronic acid (control group) or platelet-rich plasma. Clinical
outcomes were assessed using the visual analog scale for pain and the Western Ontario
and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) questionnaire before and after the
intervention. In addition, the posttreatment adverse effects were recorded. Categorical
variables were analyzed using the chi-square and Fisher exact tests, whereas continuous
variables were analyzed using the Student t test, analysis of variance, and the Wilcoxon test; all calculations were performed
with the Stats package of the R software.
Results An independent analysis of each group revealed a statistical difference within the
first months, with improvement in the pain and function scores, but worsening on the
6th month after the procedure. There was no difference in the outcomes between the groups
receiving hyaluronic acid or platelet-rich plasma. There was no serious adverse effect
or allergic reaction during the entire follow-up period.
Conclusion Intraarticular infiltration with hyaluronic acid or platelet-rich plasma in patients
with primary knee gonarthrosis resulted in temporary improvement of functional symptoms
and pain. There was no difference between interventions.
Keywords osteoarthritis, knee - hyaluronic acid - infiltration
