Comparing Platelet-Rich Plasma and Hyaluronic Acid for Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial is a single-center, prospective, randomized, single-blind study aimed at evaluating the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) compared to hyaluronic acid (HA) in treating knee osteoarthritis. The study will involve approximately 100 symptomatic patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis, who will be randomly assigned to receive either PRP or HA treatment. The primary endpoint will be measured through MRI-based cartilage thickness, while secondary outcomes will be assessed using the WOMAC total score to evaluate changes in pain and function. The trial will last approximately 13 months, with data collection concluding at month 12 post-treatment.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Ability to provide informed consent
* Chronic pain (\>3 months)
* Grade 2 -3 according to Kellgren- Lawrence (K-L) classification system (using bilateral anteroposterior radiograph image acquired while the patient is weight-bearing with both knees in full extension)
* Minimum score of 40 out of possible 100 on the VAS (Visual Analog Scale) for pain
* Age 18 to 75 years old
* Physical exam and medical history
* Complete Blood Count to include platelets and differential (CBC with Diff) within normal limits
* C-Reactive Protein (CRP) within normal limits
* Sed Rate (ESR) within normal limits
* Survey of current medications

Exclusion Criteria:

* Presence of major axial deformity (\>5° valgus or varus deviation)
* Surgery on target knee within 12 months prior to scheduled treatment
* Autoimmune disorder
* Active infections
* Immuno-suppression (e.g., AIDS, etc.)
* Anti-coagulant therapy
* Use of NSAIDs 5 days prior to blood draw or up to 7 days after last PRP / HA treatment
* Hemoglobin (Hg) \<12 g/dL
* Platelet counts (PLT) \<150,000 /mm3
* Previous infiltrative treatment within 3 weeks prior to scheduled treatment
* Pregnancy/Breastfeeding
* Hypersensitivity to HA
* Inability to complete an MRI due to metal implants or claustrophobia
* Diabetes
* Active treatment for a malignancy
* Active wound in the knee
* Recent history of knee trauma
* Vasovagal history
* An injection of hyaluronic acid (HA) or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to the affected knee within the last two years.
* In the judgment of the investigator, the patient is unable to perform and/or complete all of the study visits or treatments required.

Where it's running

• NorthShore University HealthSystems
  Skokie, Illinois, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Jason L Koh, MD, MBA — Clinical Chairman, Dept. of Orthopaedics
• Study coordinator: Jason L Koh, MD, MBA
• Email: jkoh@northshore.org
• Phone: 224-251-3481

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.