'Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy' Gaining Attention as an Alternative for Degenerative Knee Arthritis

[Financial News] Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is gaining attention among patients with degenerative knee arthritis. The intra-articular injection of autologous platelet-rich plasma, previously applied only to elbow and rotator cuff surgeries, has been approved as new medical technology for knee arthritis, expanding treatment options.
According to Yonsei Sarang Hospital on the 22nd, degenerative arthritis is caused by damage to the knee cartilage due to aging or trauma, leading to pain and limited joint movement.
In the final stage where all cartilage is worn out, artificial joint replacement surgery can be performed. However, if the disease is managed relatively early, treatments can be implemented to improve knee function and delay the need for artificial joint surgery as much as possible.
Among these, PRP therapy is a treatment method where only the platelet-rich components are extracted from the patient's blood and injected into the damaged joint area. Platelets are rich in growth factors that help reduce inflammation at the damaged site and aid in tissue regeneration, making them useful for knee cartilage damage or joint function improvement.
Goyong Gon, director of Yonsei Sarang Hospital, explained, "Degenerative knee arthritis is a disease that repeatedly causes pain due to cartilage wear and inflammation from aging, reducing daily function," adding, "PRP therapy is a good treatment option for elderly patients who have difficulty with surgery, office workers burdened by recovery time, and young people with weakened joint function due to sports injuries."
PRP injection therapy does not require hospitalization or general anesthesia and allows patients to return to daily life immediately after outpatient treatment. Additionally, it aims to induce joint function improvement for fundamental recovery.
Director Go emphasized, "PRP therapy should aim not only to reduce pain but also to protect and revive the joint," adding, "Accurate diagnosis and professional treatment plans are necessary early on to regain knee health."
  


kim091@fnnews.com Kim Young-gwon Reporter