Efficacy of Combination of PRP and Stem Cell Application on Ultrasound and MRI Findings in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis

This chapter's objective is to assess the effects of platelet-rich plasma therapy combined with mesenchymal stem cells derived from autologous adipose tissue on ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Knee osteoarthritis is the second leading cause of disability in the elderly after cardiovascular disease. Osteoarthritis of the knee most affects mobility. Severe knee osteoarthritis is the cause of disability for many patients, increasing the medical costs of the family and society. 30 patients, 26 females, 4 males, mean age 58.63 ± 11.11, mean disease duration 5.3 ± 4.6 years, respectively 60 knee joints were diagnosed with osteoarthritis at stage II - III according to the Kellgren and Lawrence classifications. After ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in the first time, all patients were injected with platelet-rich plasma combined with mesenchymal stem cells from autologous adipose tissue into both knee joints. After treatment 12 months by platelet-rich plasma injection combined with mesenchymal stem cells from autologous adipose tissue: The thickness of articular cartilage on ultrasound increased significantly from 2.08±0.36mm to 2 ,48±0.36 mm with p<0.05. There were 52 joints with increased cartilage thickness, equivalent to 86.67%. The surface of articular cartilage on magnetic resonance in all positions of the knee joint has improved, the difference was statistically significant. Particularly, the patellar joint improved from 1.56 ± 0.25 mm to 1.64 ± 0.21 mm with p < 0.05. Mesenchymal stem cells from autologous adipose tissue were successfully used in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis to increase cartilage thickness on ultrasound and magnetic resonance, consequently enhancing the knee joint's motor function.