Chondropathy patellae, also known as runner's knee, is a common orthopaedic condition characterised by pain and deterioration of the patellar cartilage. It primarily affects young, active people and can progress to patellofemoral osteoarthritis if left untreated. A recent study has explored the potential benefits of combining hyaluronic acid (HA) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for the treatment of chondropathy patellae, providing a promising alternative to traditional therapies.
A team of researchers from several Brazilian institutes, led by Dr. Fábio Costa, from the FC Sports Traumatology Clinic, and Gabriel Silva Santos, from the Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine, conducted this study. The research was published in the peer-reviewed journal Biomedicines.
Chondropathy of the patella is often the result of trauma, instability, or occupational hazards, causing symptoms such as swelling, edema, and softening of the cartilage. If left untreated, it can progress to patellofemoral osteoarthritis, a more serious condition that may require surgical interventions. Traditional treatments often include rest, immobilization, physical therapy, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However, these methods may not be sufficient for advanced stages, which require more invasive procedures.
The study highlights the regenerative potential of HA and PRP, which have been widely used to treat various musculoskeletal disorders. HA, a natural substance in the body, provides lubrication and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to relieve pain and regenerate cartilage. PRP, derived from the patient's blood, contains growth factors that promote healing by stimulating cell proliferation, differentiation and tissue regeneration.
Researchers highlight that the combination of HA and PRP may offer superior results compared to using each treatment alone. “The combination of HA and PRP has demonstrated greater efficacy in the treatment of chondropathy patellae, offering a minimally invasive and cost-effective treatment option,” said Dr. Costa.
In their study, the research team reviewed the literature, focusing on the regenerative potential of HA and PRP. They detailed the pathophysiology of chondropathy patellae, emphasizing how these orthobiologics can modulate inflammation, improve biomechanics, and stimulate natural healing processes. The study also explored PRP preparation methods, highlighting the importance of standardizing protocols to ensure consistent treatment outcomes.
Hyaluronic acid acts by binding to cell surface receptors, reducing the expression of inflammatory cytokines and promoting the synthesis of endogenous hyaluronic acid. This dual-phase action (mechanical and pharmacological) enhances the protective properties of synovial fluid, relieving pain and preventing further damage to cartilage. Meanwhile, PRP, with its rich concentration of growth factors, helps rapid neovascularization and tissue regeneration, making it a potent therapeutic agent for musculoskeletal injuries.
The combination of HA and PRP may provide a functional matrix that supports cartilage repair and improves joint biomechanics. Clinical studies have shown significant improvements in pain relief and physical function in patients who received combined HA and PRP injections compared to those who received HA alone. “This synergistic approach not only improves therapeutic efficacy, but also offers a practical and minimally invasive solution for patients with chondropathy patellae,” added Dr. Costa.
In summary, the study by Dr. Costa and colleagues demonstrated that the synergistic effects of HA and PRP present a promising alternative for the treatment of chondropathy patellae. This combination therapy offers enhanced pain relief, improved joint function, and promotes tissue regeneration, providing a viable option for patients seeking nonsurgical treatments. As research progresses, standardization of PRP preparation protocols and further clinical trials will be crucial to establishing these orthobiologics as a mainstay in orthopedic treatment strategies.
Journal reference
Costa, FR, Santos, MdS, Martins, RA, Costa, CB, Hamdan, PC, Da Silva, MB, Azzini, GOM, Pires, L., Menegassi, Z., Santos, GS, et al. “Synergistic effects of hyaluronic acid and platelet-rich plasma for patellar chondropathy”. Biomedicines 2024, 12, 6. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12010006
About the authors
Dr. Fabio Costa Dr. Costa is a renowned orthopedic specialist and the lead physician at FC Sports Traumatology Clinic in Brazil. With extensive experience in sports medicine and orthopedics, Dr. Costa has been at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge regenerative techniques into clinical practice. His expertise includes the use of hyaluronic acid for the treatment of joint disorders and cartilage injuries. Dr. Costa is dedicated to improving patient care through evidence-based medicine and has published articles in high-impact medical journals. His leadership in the field has significantly contributed to the development of effective, non-surgical treatments for musculoskeletal conditions.
Gabriel Silva Santos Gabriel is a leading researcher at the Brazilian Institute of Regenerative Medicine, specialized in the field of orthobiology and regenerative therapies. With a strong background in musculoskeletal regeneration, Gabriel has contributed extensively to the advancement of non-surgical treatment options for various orthopedic conditions. His work focuses on the synergistic effects of biological agents such as hyaluronic acid and platelet-rich plasma, aiming to improve patient outcomes through innovative and minimally invasive therapies. Gabriel's research is widely published in peer-reviewed journals and he is committed to translating scientific discoveries into practical clinical applications.
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