Single-center double-blind RCT (n=110, KL grade 1-3 knee OA) comparing one intra-articular injection of leukocyte-rich PRP versus hyaluronic acid. The primary endpoint was IKDC subjective score improvement at 6 months. Uniquely, 11 growth factors and cytokines were quantified in each patient's injected PRP to test whether biological composition predicts clinical response.
Most PRP trials report platelet counts and stop there — this trial directly addresses that gap by measuring 11 growth factors and cytokines in every patient's injected sample and correlating them with clinical response.
The clinical takeaway is two-part. First, PRP provides a real but modest advantage over HA at 6 months. The IKDC and VAS benefits are statistically significant and cross the MCID, but most secondary outcomes do not separate. Set patient expectations accordingly.
Second, when you counsel patients or evaluate commercial PRP systems, platelet count is the wrong metric. PDGF-BB and PDGF-AB concentrations distinguished responders from non-responders; platelet count, leukocyte count, and all other measured factors did not. Preparation method and kit selection matter because they determine growth factor yield, not just cell concentration.
This is a 6-month trial with a single injection and no placebo arm, so durability of benefit and the true placebo effect remain open questions.
Single-center double-blind RCT (n=110, KL grade 1-3 knee OA) comparing one intra-articular injection of leukocyte-rich PRP versus hyaluronic acid. The primary endpoint was IKDC subjective score improvement at 6 months. Uniquely, 11 growth factors and cytokines were quantified in each patient's injected PRP to test whether biological composition predicts clinical response.
Most PRP trials report platelet counts and stop there — this trial directly addresses that gap by measuring 11 growth factors and cytokines in every patient's injected sample and correlating them with clinical response.
The clinical takeaway is two-part. First, PRP provides a real but modest advantage over HA at 6 months. The IKDC and VAS benefits are statistically significant and cross the MCID, but most secondary outcomes do not separate. Set patient expectations accordingly.
Second, when you counsel patients or evaluate commercial PRP systems, platelet count is the wrong metric. PDGF-BB and PDGF-AB concentrations distinguished responders from non-responders; platelet count, leukocyte count, and all other measured factors did not. Preparation method and kit selection matter because they determine growth factor yield, not just cell concentration.
This is a 6-month trial with a single injection and no placebo arm, so durability of benefit and the true placebo effect remain open questions.