Background: Leukocyte-rich platelet-rich plasma (LR-PRP) has demonstrated to be beneficial for patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA); however, reliable objective end points to accurately assess its therapeutic effects is lacking. Aim: To investigate the efficacy of LR-PRP as assessed by functional and patient-reported outcomes at early time points (6 weeks). Materials & methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study in 12 patients with diagnosed KOA (Kellgren Lawrence score of II-III), who underwent a single ultrasound-guided LR-PRP injection. Results: There was significant improvement in timed up and go, pain and quality of life scales and balance parameters. There were nonsignificant improvements in range of motion and gait parameters. Conclusion: LR-PRP demonstrates efficacy in meaningful end points for functional and patient-reported outcomes at early time points in patients with KOA.
Keywords: balance; functional outcomes; gait; knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score 12; knee osteoarthritis; leukocyte-rich platelet-rich plasma; patient-reported outcomes; timed up and go; wearable sensor technology.