Evaluation of The Efficacy of Intra Articular Methylprednisolone Acetate Injection in Knee Osteoarthritis in A Tertiary Care Center of North India

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of intra articular methyl prednisolone acetate injection in knee osteoarthritis using the modified Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) score and Visual Analogue score. (VAS).

Methods: A prospective interventional study on 50 patients (72 knees) with osteo arthritis according to Kellgren and Lawrence radiographic grading were given 80 mg of methylprednisolone acetate intra articular injection and the outcome was assessed using the modified Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) score and Visual Analogue score. (VAS) prior to the procedure and at 4, 12 and 24 weeks post procedure.

Results: The study population consisted of 18 (36.0%) males and 32 (64.0%) females. The mean age of the study population was 61.92±7.37years. 72 Knee Osteo arthritis (KOA) were graded according to Kellgren and Lawrence radiological grading. 29 knees (40.3%) were grade 2, 34 knees (47.2%) were grade 3, and 9 knees (12.5%) were grade 4. The mean WOMAC score and VAS decreased from baseline to 4 weeks, 12 weeks and 24 weeks as demonstrated by the significant p-value at these time intervals. The mean VAS difference between 4 weeks and 12 weeks wasn’t statistically significant. (p=0.08) The severity of the KOA significantly correlated with the WOMAC score at baseline, 4 weeks, 12 weeks and 24 weeks. There was an increase in the WOMAC score with severity of KOA grading. There was a significant difference in mean WOMAC score between baseline, 4 weeks, 12 weeks and 24 weeks for all grades of KOA.

Conclusions: Intra articular steroid injections remains an easily available, low cost with significant benefits in patients with KOA. Its use can decrease pain, improve functional outcomes and better quality of life up to 24 weeks.