The role of comprehensive geriatric assessment in older patients affected by knee osteoarthritis: an exploratory randomized controlled trial.

研究概要

Seventy patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA) were randomized to receive a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) with tailored interventions (n=35) or standard care (n=35). The primary outcome was the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC: pain, stiffness, function). Secondary outcomes included the Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI) and SF-36 quality-of-life scores; assessments occurred at 3 and 6 months (primary endpoint at 6 months). Overall, the results of the study revealed non-significant between-group differences: total WOMAC mean difference −4.49 (p=0.19), with numerically lower pain (−1.12; p=0.23) and functional limitation (−3.26; p=0.15); stiffness was unchanged (−0.07; p=0.88). MPI showed a small, non-significant reduction (−0.02; p=0.69) and SF-36 scores did not differ; importantly, no falls, hospitalizations, or severe adverse events were reported. These findings suggest CGA may confer modest symptom benefits but requires larger, longer trials to establish efficacy.