Knee osteoarthritis can be treated with new-generation hydrogel injections, offering pain relief and improved mobility, without surgery. Hydrogel injections are applied in a similar way to other knee injections. The treatment uses polyacrylamide, which forms the gel’s main structure. This provides cushioning and lubrication for the joint. The hydrogel helps heal the synovial tissue in the knee, promoting the production of lubricating fluid. The polyacrylamide in the hydrogel is present at a concentration of 2.5%. Since polyacrylamide is not biodegradable, it stays in the joint for a long time, allowing for extended benefits from the treatment.
How Does Knee Osteoarthritis Develop?
In patient with knee issues, the initial symptoms are often vague. They might experience morning stiffness in the joint. As the cartilage deteriorates it wears away more and more. Over tim, stiffness develops beneath the cartilage and bone spurs may form aroungs the joint, initially patients may experience pain while walking. As the condition progress, swelling, edema and stiffness in the joint become more common, leading to reduced movement. Patients may find it difficult to stand up, walk or move around. The combination of these symptoms can worsen the condition of the joint. The joint enviroment becomes hypoxic, making natural treatment limited.
Is Hydrogel Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis Safe?
Hydrogel treatment is a minimally invasive and safe method that has not shown any allergic reactions so far. It is highly biocompatible when applied to the joint. Most patients experience minimal pain, resulting in high comfort after the procedure. Hydrogel injections help reduce swelling in the joint and around the knee.
What Innovations Does Hydrogel Injection Treatment Offer?
Hydrogel injection treatment introduces several innovations compared to other knee injection therapies. Unlike traditional injections, which start to degrade once administered into the joint, hydrogel treatment lasts longer because the polyacrylamide, it contains is non-biodegradable. This makes it a long-lasting treatment option. Hydrogel injection can be used in advanced stage 4 osteoarthritis, where other treatments may no longer be effective. By staying in the joint for an extended period, it helps prevent further joint damage.
Is Hydrogel Treatment a New Method?
Hydrogel injection treatment is not entirely new; it has beed used as a long-lasting filler cosmetic procedures, such as lip augmentation. In urology, it has been applied to treat vesicoureteral refux (VUR). Since 2009, it has also been used in studies for treating the knees of racehorses. Due to its biocompatibility and safety, hydrogel has become an alternative to other knee treatments.
Can Hydrogel Treatment Be Used for Other Joint Areas?
Hydrogel treatment is specifially used for the knee joint and its not applied to other joints. It is often asked about for the hip joint. When the mechanical properties of the hip joint are damaged, osteoarthritis and bone spurs can impair movemen. In cases of severe movement limitation, hydrogel treatment may not be effective.
Is There an Age Limit for Hydrogel Treatment?
There is no age limit for hydrogel treatment. It can be an alternative for young patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis who cannot undergo surgery or for older patients as a non-surgery option. The success rate is higher when hydrogel injections are used in early stages of osteoarthritis. It helps protect and extend the life of the joint. Hydrogel injection treatment is suitable for all ages and can be used at any stage of knee osteoarthritis.
When Can Patients Return to Activities After Hydrogel Treatment?
After hydrogel treatment for other knee osteoarthritis, patients can start walking and resume daily activities immediately. However, it is recommended to avoid strenuous ativites and long walks for one month after the procedure. Some mild pain after treatment is normal. Applying ice and using pain relievers can heko manage this discomfort.
Are Hydrogel Knee Treatment Cost High?
Hydrogel treatment is not considered expensive when you think about the quality of life it provides and the cost of other treatments that might not work. The main concern is the benefit patients receive form the treatment. Patients with limited daily activities and chronic conditions often face higher medication and treatment costs. Reducing knee pain can lead to increased mobility an the ability to exercise, which can help manage weight and reduce the impact of chronic diseases.
Does Hydrogel Treatment Have Any Complications?
When Hydrogel treatment for knee osteoarthritis is performed under proper sterile conditions, the risk is minimal. Antibiotic treatment before and after the procedure is recommended. There is minimal risk of infection after hydrogel treatment.
Does Hydrogel Treatment Prevent Knee Replacement Surgery?
Hydrogel treatment does not prevent knee replacement surgery. If a patient needs knee replacement after having hydrogel treatment, the surgery can be done using standard techniques. Damaged tissues are cleaned as they would be in any regular surgery.