The role of comprehensive geriatric assessment in older patients affected by knee osteoarthritis: an exploratory randomized controlled trial
摘要
This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) compared to standard of care in improving pain, physical function, and stiffness in older adults with knee osteoarthritis (OA) over six months. Secondary outcomes included multidimensional frailty and quality of life.
DesignAn exploratory, multicentre, randomized controlled trial (RCT).
SettingFive European geriatric centres in Italy, Germany, Turkiye and the Czech Republic.
ParticipantsSeventy older adults (mean age 76.1 ± 6.8 years; 80% female) with knee OA (Kellgren-Lawrence Grades 1–2) were randomized into two groups: CGA (n = 35) or standard of care (n = 35).
InterventionThe CGA group underwent a multidimensional geriatric assessment and intervention, identifying impairments and tailoring interventions accordingly, while the control group received standard of care.
Main outcome measuresThe primary endpoint was improvement in pain, stiffness, and functional limitations measured using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) over six months. Secondary outcomes included changes in multidimensional frailty (Multidimensional Prognostic Index, MPI), quality of life (SF-36), and adherence to interventions.
ResultsThe CGA group showed a non-significant improvement in total WOMAC scores (-4.49 ± 3.40, p = 0.19), with slight reductions in pain (-1.12 ± 0.96) and functional limitations (-3.26 ± 2.21). MPI slightly improved (-0.02 ± 0.04, p = 0.69), but no significant changes were observed in SF-36 scores. No falls, hospitalizations, or severe adverse events were reported.
ConclusionsCGA may offer potential benefits for managing knee OA in older adults, particularly for pain and function, though statistical significance was not achieved. Larger studies with longer follow-up are warranted to confirm these findings.
Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05659979.