Welcome to the Regenerative Research Roundup, where we look through recently published research and bring you the best of the best in a quick-to-read digest.
This month, we cover:
Review of Injection Therapy for Hip OA;
PRP for IVF Therapy;
Nutritional Status of Orthopaedic Outcomes;
and a PRP RCT Infographic
Let's dive in!
Clinical efficacy of multiple intra-articular injection for hip osteoarthritis
Bone & Joint // LOE: I
In a systematic review and network meta-analysis investigating the clinical outcomes of intra-articular (IA) injections for hip osteoarthritis (OA), 1,809 patients from 16 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were analyzed. The study compared seven treatment options: hyaluronic acid (HA), steroid, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), local anaesthetic, steroid+local anaesthetic, PRP+HA, and placebo. Pain and physical function were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) at three and six months.
Significant improvements were observed in all groups, with steroid injections offering the most notable pain relief and functional improvement within three months compared to other treatments. However, while steroids demonstrated short-term efficacy, orthobiologics such as PRP, HA, and combination therapy (PRP+HA) provided better long-term results. At six months, placebo injections provided better pain relief, while PRP+HA injections showed the best functional improvement.
The study found no significant difference in efficacy among the treatments beyond the initial three months, suggesting that short-term benefits may be achieved with steroid injections, while longer-term improvements might be better addressed with orthobiologic therapies. The review highlighted inconsistencies in the analysis, particularly within the first three months, indicating the need for further research to understand the mechanisms behind the effectiveness of these treatments. The findings suggest that while steroids may offer quick relief, PRP, HA, and PRP+HA could be more beneficial for sustained functional improvement in hip OA patients.
Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma as a potential new approach in the endometrial response during in vitro fertilization cycle: a Pilot Study
Reproductive Health and Medicine // LOE: Ill
In a prospective study, ten patients with primary infertility and thin endometrium (<7 mm) underwent intrauterine infusion of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) at RiSSA IVF Center, Delhi, over 18 months. PRP was prepared from the patients' blood using a centrifuge kit, though absolute values were not characterized.
Patients received one to three PRP infusions based on ET response, with 80% achieving an ET ≥7 mm and six achieving clinical pregnancies. The results suggest PRP can improve ET and pregnancy outcomes in women with thin endometrium, indicating a growing interest in PRP for IVF and reproductive medicine.
ACCESS HERE: https://doi.org/10.25259/JRHM_5_2024
The Role of Perioperative Nutritional Status and Supplementation in Orthopaedic Surgery: A Review of Postoperative Outcomes
JBJS // LOE: lV
This review paper looks at the impact nutritional status and supplementation has on post-op orthopedic outcomes. Malnourishment significantly impacts the outcomes of orthopaedic procedures by limiting metabolic reserves crucial for recovery. Malnourishment was characterized by insufficient energy intake, weight loss, muscle atrophy, and reduced functional capacity. Identifying malnourished patients through standardized preoperative evaluations is essential, as it allows for proactive management to mitigate risks.
While laboratory tests can provide some insights into nutritional status, they often lack specificity for malnutrition. Therefore, the use of dedicated screening tools is recommended to accurately assess nutritional risk. This approach is critical not only in surgical settings but also in the context of non-surgical international orthobiologics, where optimizing patient outcomes remains paramount.
Clinicians are advised to integrate holistic patient care strategies that encompass nutrition consultations and perioperative supplementation. These interventions, such as amino acids and micronutrient support, are readily available and can significantly benefit malnourished patients. By adopting a comprehensive approach to patient management, both surgical and non-surgical practitioners can enhance recovery trajectories and overall patient well-being in orthopaedic care.
ACCESS HERE: https://doi.org/10.2106/jbjs.rvw.23.00242
2024 PRP RCT Infographic
Regenexx; Dr. Chris Centeno
Each year, Dr. Chris Centeno from Regenexx compiles all RCTs on specific orthobiological interventions, in this case PRP, into an easy to read/access infographic.
It is a valuable resource for every practitioner looking for best-in-class evidence supporting the use of PRP in specific applications. At this point, it is clear to see the overwhelming amount of evidence in major applications such as Knee OA, Shoulder, Lateral Epicondylitis, Plantar Fasciitis, and more.
If you have any questions or comments regarding the above research, or are wondering how you can apply it to your regenerative practice, please leave a comment below or shoot me an email at cdowns@mdbiologix.com
Cheers!
Connor
This blog post provides general information to help the reader better understand regenerative medicine, musculoskeletal health, and any related subjects. The views and opinions expressed in this post are those of the author and may not reflect the views and opinions of MDBiologix. All content provided in this blog, website, or any linked materials, including text, graphics, images, patient profiles, outcomes, and information, are not intended and should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please always consult with a professional and certified healthcare provider to discuss if any treatment is right for you.
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