Using PRP injections to improve recovery after ACL surgery

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injured Knee to Decrease the Risk of Post-traumatic Osteoarthritis (PTOA): a Randomized Double-blind Controlled Trial

Phase 3 Interventional Hospital for Special Surgery, New York · NCT05412381

This study tests if PRP injections can help people recover better and reduce inflammation after ACL surgery compared to a placebo.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment56 (estimated)
Ages14 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorHospital for Special Surgery, New York Academic / other
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT05412381 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections on reducing inflammation and improving joint function in patients who have suffered acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. The study involves a randomized controlled trial design, comparing PRP injections to placebo saline injections in patients undergoing ACL reconstruction. It aims to assess the short-term outcomes related to inflammation biomarkers and functional recovery, addressing the common issue of post-traumatic osteoarthritis that can develop after ACL injuries. The trial is powered based on the KOOS Jr. questionnaire, focusing on the functional outcomes of the participants.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 14-50 who have sustained an acute ACL injury within the last 6 weeks.

Not a fit: Patients with prior ACL reconstruction, significant cartilage lesions, or other ligament injuries requiring repair may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance recovery and reduce the risk of developing post-traumatic osteoarthritis in patients with ACL injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with PRP injections in similar contexts, suggesting potential benefits in recovery and inflammation management.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Acute ACL injury within 6 weeks of presentation
* Age 14-50
* Male or female
* Meniscus injury that can be treated with meniscectomy or repair (the lack of meniscus injury will not exclude patients)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Prior ACL reconstruction
* Prior cartilage repair procedure
* Prior meniscus surgery within 12 months
* Prior steroid, hyaluronic acid, or PRP injection within 6 months
* Other ligament injury requiring repair
* Any cartilage lesion requiring repair
* Any cartilage lesion greater than grade 2 (partial thickness injury)
* History of inflammatory arthritis or joint sepsis
* Non English speakers

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Anterior Cruciate Ligament InjuriesPost-traumatic OsteoarthritisPRPplatelet-rich plasmaregenerative medicineanterior cruciate ligament reconstructionpost-traumatic osteoarthritis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.