Arthroscopic Debridement Followed by Intra-articular Injection of Micro-fragmented Adipose Tissue in Patients Affected by Knee Osteoarthritis

Background/Objectives: Micro-fragmented adipose tissue is emerging as a promising option for the treatment of various diseases including knee osteoarthritis (OA), though clinical trials are often limited by small sample size and short follow-up periods. Our aim was to evaluate safety and clinical outcomes of an arthroscopic debridement followed by a single injection of micro- fragmented adipose tissue in patients affected by knee OA. Methods: From 2016 to 2020 patients affected by knee OA were enrolled. Micro-fragmented adipose tissue was obtained through the Lipogems kit and intraarticularly injected after an arthroscopic debridement. VAS for pain, Tegner score, Lysholm score, KOOS score subscales variations were assessed from baseline to 3-, 6-, 12-, 24- and 48 months follow-up.