The Clinical Effect of Platelet Rich Plasma Prepared Through Different Activation Methods on Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

Aim: Intra-articular application of platelet rich plasma (PRP) can be an alternative treatment method for knee osteoarthritis. The objective of this study was to compare the activation methods of platelet rich plasma before intra-articular application. Material and Method: A total 51 patients (76 knees) was randomly selected into two groups. In group 1, activation of PRP was managed by adding calcium chloride (CaCl). In group 2, activation of PRP was managed by keeping the solution at -70° degrees for 24 hours after preparation and immersed in water at 37oC for a period of 5 minutes for complete dissolution. Then PRP was applied. The patients were assessed with VAS and WOMAC pain scores both baseline and after 2nd, 6th and 12th months of the treatment. Results: VAS and WOMAC pain scores were significantly higher at baseline compared to the results obtained at the 2nd, 6th and 12th months (p=0.06). Following 2nd, 6th and 12th months a gradual downward tendency was seen in both scores, even though no significant difference was found between the groups after 2nd, 6th and 12th months. Discussion: Patients received some clinical benefits from both activation methods. There is no significant difference between activating PRP by CaCl or -70°C which compared in terms of clinical benefits. Therefore, blood storage at -70ºC may be preferred primary due to no need for additional material such as CaCl