Joost Peerbooms

36 Chapter 3 ABSTRACT Background and purpose: Activated platelets release a cocktail of growth factors, some of which are thought to stimulate repair. We investigated whether the use of autologous platelet gel (PG) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) would improve wound healing, knee function, and decrease blood loss and the use of analgesics. Patients and methods: 102 patients undergoing TKA were randomly assigned in a PG group (n= 50) or in a control (C) group (n = 52). The primary analysis was based on 73 participants (PG = 32, C = 41) comparing the postoperative wound scores, VAS, WOMAC, Knee function, use of analgesics, and the pre- and postoperative haemoglobin values after a follow up of 3 months. 29 participants were excluded due to insufficient data. Results: Characteristics of the protocol-compliant patients were similar to those who were excluded. Analysis was per protocol and focused on the remaining 73 patients. At baseline and after 3 months follow up, there were no differences between both groups for age, height, weight, sex, side of operation, platelet count, haemoglobin values, severity of complaints (WOMAC) and level of pain. Interpretation: In our patients undergoing TKA the application of PG to the wound site did not promote wound healing. Also, no effect of PG was found on pain, knee function and haemoglobin values. Trial registration: METC protocol number 04-17. Date of approval 27 th October 2004.