Injections

Arthrosamid, unlike other viscosupplement injections for the knee, is a non-biodegradable hydrogel, meaning it is able to lubricate the joint for longer – giving longer pain relief! The injectate integrates into the synovium – the lining of the joint capsule – creating a cushion-like effect. It has also been shown to significantly reduce inflammation in the synovium and the joint, which in turn reduces pain, swelling and stiffness.

Arthrosamid is approved for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a natural consequence of aging, however, some people have degenerative changes that cause the joint to become swollen, inflamed and painful. This is often in combination with joint stiffness and pain doing normal activities like walking and climbing up and down the stairs.

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Before the procedure

At your initial consultation, the doctor will take time to understand your symptoms and undertake a thorough assessment to ensure the injection is right for you. It is important to let the doctor know of any known allergies, such as plasters. It is recommended you do not receive an Arthrosamid injection if you are under 18, pregnant or breastfeeding, have had a knee arthroscopy within the past 6 months or suffer from any autoimmune disorders or poorly controlled diabetes.Please also let the doctor know if you have any medical conditions or if you take any regular medications including blood thinning medications.

This is also a great opportunity to ask the doctor any questions you may have about the procedure.

Arthrosamid® is administered with oral prophylactic antibiotics due to the permanent nature of the scaffold implant. You will be prescribed antibiotics by the doctor prior to the appointment and you are required to take them 4 hours before your Arthrosamid injection. This ensures there is a high concentration of antibiotics in the tissues at the time of injection to help protect you from any potential risk of infection.

Prior to your procedure, eat and drink as normal and take any regular medication as usual (unless advised otherwise by the doctor). Please come to your appointment wearing loose, comfortable clothing.

The doctor will explain everything to you before your procedure and ask you to sign a consent form to confirm that you are happy to proceed.

The injections are performed using our high-tech fluoroscopic x-ray or Ultrasound for guidance and precision, by using this image guidance for accuracy and safety, the doctor can be confident the injectate is being delivered to the desired location.

Local anaesthetic is used on theinjection site to make the procedure as comfortable as possible for you before the injection of Arthrosamid is administered with the help of our high-tech fluoroscope or ultrasound scanner to ensure the Arthrosamid is perfectly placed into your joint.

Patients are often surprised at how quick and comfortable the process is.

-You will be allowed to leave as soon as you feel ready after your treatment.

-As the anaesthetic wears off you may start to feel a little uncomfortable, but many patients don’t report any discomfort.

-If you do feel discomfort, symptoms may include: moderate pain and/or swelling at the injection site.

-If your knee becomes red, hot, largely swollen or more painful, you should contact the clinic or alternatively call 111 for treatment.

-Continue taking your medication and pain relief as normal.

-You will likely feel some pain relief with in 24 hours of the treatment, however, it can take uo to 4 to12 weeks to feel the maximum benefit.

The hydrogel making up the injection will not degrade and therefore will provide long-lasting relief. In clinical trials, after receiving an Arthrosamid injection the reduction in pain a patient experienced was maintained at a 3 year follow up period. To encourage the longevity of these positive effects, we recommend a follow up with one of our amazing therapists to support your recovery with a personalised rehab plan.

The treatment could be repeated if required and advised by your doctor. It is not recommended to repeat the treatment within 6 months.

Research has shown that patients reported a significant reduction in their symptoms by 12 weeks after the injection. It takes around 12 weeks for the physiological changes in the synovium to happen for the full effects of Arthrosamid to take place. However, many of our patients have reported that they experienced relief sooner after their injection (around 4 weeks).