A Comparative Study for Different Types of Thumb Base Osteoarthritis Injections: A Randomized Controlled...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Rheumatology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis presents treatment challenges.
• Local injections offer a low-systemic-effect option for rapid improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), hyaluronic acid (HA), and corticosteroid injections for thumb CMC OA.
• To evaluate clinical and functional outcomes following intra-articular injections.

Main Methods:

• 45 patients with thumb CMC OA were randomized into three groups: PRP, HA, or corticosteroid injection.
• Assessments included joint tenderness, provocative tests, VAS pain, AUSCAN score, and grip/pinch strength.
• Outcomes were evaluated at 4 and 12 weeks post-injection.

Main Results:

• All groups showed initial improvement at 4 weeks.
• PRP and corticosteroid groups experienced deterioration in function and increased pain by 12 weeks.
• Hyaluronic acid (HA) group demonstrated sustained, statistically significant improvements in all measured outcomes at 12 weeks.

Conclusions:

• While PRP, HA, and corticosteroids initially improve pain and function in thumb base OA, only HA provides lasting benefits.
• Hyaluronic acid (HA) injections are most effective for long-term pain relief and functional improvement in thumb CMC OA.
• Longer follow-up is needed to determine the full duration of HA's effects.