Mokpo Christian Hospital Introduces Intra-articular Injection Therapy for Knee Arthritis

Official Approval of New Medical Technology Recognizing Safety and Efficacy
Effective for Treating Elbow Conditions such as Golf and Tennis Elbow

The Orthopedic Department at Mokpo Christian Hospital announced on the 23rd that it will officially begin offering PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) treatment for patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Recently, the Ministry of Health and Welfare's New Medical Technology Assessment Committee officially recognized the safety and effectiveness of "intra-articular injection of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for knee osteoarthritis."

PRP treatment is already widely used for shoulder rotator cuff tears, tennis elbow, golf elbow, and other elbow joint disorders. The procedure involves drawing about 20cc of the patient's own blood, separating the platelet component using a special centrifuge, concentrating the growth factors, and injecting them into the joint.

Exterior view of Mokpo Christian Hospital.

It is mainly effective for chronic knee pain such as degenerative arthritis. As people age or engage in activities that put repeated strain on the knees, cartilage wears down and inflammation occurs, resulting in pain. Knee PRP injections help alleviate pain and improve joint function by regenerating damaged tissue and reducing inflammation through growth factors contained in the platelets.

Knee PRP injections are known to have little risk of rejection or side effects because the patient's own blood is used, and the fact that it can be performed as an outpatient treatment on the same day is especially good news for patients.

PRP injections are suitable for patients with persistent knee pain or progressive degenerative arthritis. However, since the treatment is not suitable for everyone, it is important to consult with your physician to determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

Orthopedic Department Head Sung Juhyung stated, "With the recent approval of this new medical technology, knee PRP injection therapy can be a safe and effective treatment for those whose daily lives are affected by knee pain or arthritis. For patients with grade 2 to 3 knee osteoarthritis who have not responded to conservative treatment for over a year, it can help promote natural healing of the joint without surgery. We will do our best to provide optimal treatment to help alleviate pain and aid recovery."