Intra-articular adipose-derived cell therapies for knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Relatively higher-quality human studies compared with other topics in this database, e.g. multiple RCTs or systematic reviews. This does not mean it is standard or approved care.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Introduction Knee osteoarthritis is a leading cause of chronic pain, functional limitation, and disability worldwide, imposing a substantial socioeconomic burden. Despite advances in conservative management and intra-articular therapies, many patients experience limited or transient symptomatic relief, underscoring the need for biologically based interventions. Intra-articular adipose-derived cell therapies, including adipose-derived mesenchymal stem or stromal cells (ADSCs), stromal vascular fraction (SVF), and microfragmented adipose tissue (MFAT), have emerged as regenerative strategies aimed at modulating inflammation and joint homeostasis. This systematic review evaluated the efficacy, structural effects, and safety of intra-articular adipose-derived cell-based therapies for knee osteoarthritis in adults. Methods Randomized controlled trials published between 2015 and 2025 were identified through systematic searches of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. Eligible studies compared ADSCs, SVF, or MFAT with placebo, hyaluronic acid, platelet-rich plasma, corticosteroids, or conservative care, and reported outcomes on pain, function, imaging-based structural changes, and safety. Results Nineteen randomized controlled trials met inclusion criteria. Across studies, adipose-derived interventions, particularly ADSC-based therapies, produced clinically meaningful reductions

Evidence level

Relatively higher-quality human studies compared with other topics in this database, e.g. multiple RCTs or systematic reviews. This does not mean it is standard or approved care.

Browse all related research

Filter the research library by this study's title keywords, author, or publication year.