Biological Injections in OA – State of the Art and Future Strategies 

Description

Constance Chu presents a comprehensive overview of the advancements and future prospects of biological injections in treating osteoarthritis. She emphasizes the current reliance on traditional injection therapies, which primarily provide palliative relief without addressing the underlying disease. A core focus is on the potential benefits of biological treatments, specifically platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and cell therapies, for both pain relief and as regenerative treatments. Through a study involving a three-injection series of leukocyte-poor PRP in patients with early to moderate knee osteoarthritis, Chu reports notable improvements in pain, stiffness, and physical function six months post-treatment. However, variability in individual responses raises questions about the consistent efficacy of PRP, highlighting that while some patients benefit significantly, others may not experience the same results. Moreover, Chu discusses findings suggesting that increased joint loading following treatment may correlate with a worsening of cartilage health in certain areas, challenging the understanding of PRP’s long-term effects on joint health. She advocates for a paradigm shift towards not just symptom management but also prevention of osteoarthritis by identifying and treating pre-osteoarthritis, potentially employing advanced therapies like localized gene therapy for sustained release of biologically active factors. In conclusion, while biological injections represent a promising avenue in osteoarthritis management, further research is needed to clarify their role and establish protocols for effective treatment.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-221766

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