Platelet-rich plasma combined with core decompression and allogeneic fibula rod support for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (Ficat stage II): a short-term follow-up

Abstract

Background: The objective of this study was to investigate the potency of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) combined with core decompression and allogeneic fibula rod support for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH, Ficat stage II).

Methods: This was a retrospective study of clinical data of patients who were admitted to our hospital for treatment of ONFH from July 2014 to June 2015. In PRP group, patients (9 cases) were treated with platelet-rich plasma combined with core decompression and allogeneic fibula rod support. In control group, patients (7 cases) were treated with core decompression and allogeneic fibula rod support only. The time from onset of symptoms to surgery was 3–6 months (mean: 4.5 months). Harris hip scores before and after surgery were recorded (> 90, excellent; 75–90, good; 60–74, poor; and < 60, bad). An imaging study was performed 1 and 3 months after surgery.

Results: In the PRP group, the Harris scores increased from 67.82 ± 9.61 to 88.45 ± 6.02. In the control group, the Harris scores increased from 69.74 ± 8.26 to 87.36 ± 6.17. There were statistically significant differences in pretherapy and post-treatment scores (P < 0.05). Three months postsurgery, the shapes of the femoral heads in both groups were good, with no deformation or collapse. The location of the top of the allograft fibula was perfect (no fibula out). Additionally, the fibula rods began to combine with the surrounding bone after 3 months postsurgery, without infection.

Conclusion: PRP can ease hip pain and improve joint function