Arthrosamid® provides a significant reduction in Osteoarthritis pain

What is Arthrosamid®?

Arthrosamid® is an injectable implant, and whilst it is injected using a syringe, it is actually an implant rather than a medicine.

It is considered a suitable treatment option for patients who are potentially too young for knee replacement, patients who wish to explore all available options before committing to joint replacement, and patients who are medically unfit for joint replacement.

How does it work?

Arthrosamid® permanently combines with the tissue lining your knee joint, thickening it to provide a barrier. It's this unique characteristic that provides a significant reduction in Osteoarthritis pain over a longer period — with one single treatment

Arthrosamid® offers a range of benefits for people with knee osteoarthritis, particularly for those who haven't achieved enough or long lasting relief from physiotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, or other types of knee injections such as steroids or hyaluronic acid.

Key advantages include:

• Long-lasting pain relief: Many patients experience a significant and sustained reduction in knee pain following treatment.
• Better movement and flexibility: The cushioning effect helps the knee move more smoothly, making it easier to walk, climb stairs, and perform daily activities.
• Quick and minimally invasive: The procedure involves a simple injection, avoiding the need for surgery and allowing for a faster recovery.
• Delays or reduces the need for surgery: Arthrosamid® can help you manage symptoms effectively and may postpone the need for a knee replacement

Generally speaking, with advancing age, there is an increased likelihood that a patient's knee will have loss of cartilage, and thus a greater proportion of patients will suffer knee pain due to the exposure of bone ends.

In younger patients, where there is not yet complete loss of the cartilage, the prevalence of bone exposure is less, and the response rate is observed to be higher, see below image.

How long does it last?

The latest results published September 2024 show that those patients who respond to the Arthrosamid® have a decrease in their knee pain, and the effect can be sustained for four years. However it is important to bear in mind that every patient and their condition is different, there is no cure for osteoarthritis and that your knee may not improve and in rare cases, may get worse.

What happens during an Arthrosamid® procedure?

Before treatment with Arthrosamid® You will complete a formal consent form detailing the procedure. You will be given antibiotics ahead of the procedure to protect you from any potential risk of infection.

For the injection you will have a local anaesthetic injection in the knee to numb the area around your knee.

Your knee is cleaned prior to treatment. Arthrosamid® is then singularly injected into your knee's synovial cavity. This is performed under ultrasound guidance. The needle is then removed and a plaster is placed over the injection site.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Arthrosamid® is considered very safe, but as with any injection, some side effects can occur:

• Mild swelling, pain, or bruising at the injection site
• Temporary stiffness
• Rarely, infection or allergic reaction

If you notice persistent redness, warmth, or discharge, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

What should I do after treatment?

• Rest for the first 48 hours, but you can carry on light daily activities.
• Expect some soreness or mild swelling — use ice packs or simple pain relief if needed.
• Avoid strenuous exercise (like running or tennis) for about two weeks.
• Gradually increase activity as advised by your clinician.

You'll also be encouraged to do strengthening exercises to help support the knee. A self-directed exercise program or physiotherapy guidance is available after treatment

When will I notice improvements:

Clinical trials and patient feedback show patients start to see the benefit from the treatment typically at 8+ weeks following the treatment. Pain levels and function will continue to improve up to 6 months and the benefit could last up to 4 years.

• Early responders: 4 weeks
• Typical Responder: 4-12 weeks
• Delayed responders: 12 weeks - 6 months

What if it doesn't work?

If Arthrosamid® doesn't provide relief, you can still proceed to other treatments, including knee replacement surgery. Surgeons report no difference in performing replacements on knees previously treated with Arthrosamid®.It's best to wait at least six months before considering surgery to allow the treatment to fully take effect.

How can I book or learn more?

To find out if Arthrosamid® is suitable for you, please book a consultation with Vikas. Your appointment will include:

• A full assessment
• Physiotherapy and self-management advice
• Discussion about Arthrosamid® and your treatment options

Further information:

The Arthrosmid® patient website is also a great resource to learn more about the treatment including FAQ