WHAT IS HYDROGEL? 
 
Hydrogel is an active substance used in the elimination of pain caused by tissue damage and aids in facilitating tissue healing. Due to its compatibility with the body's biology, hydrogel can be injected into the knee joint as a sterile gel. This gel comprises 97.5% sterile water and 2.5% polyacrylamide (PAAG). Polyacrylamide prevents the biological degradation of hydrogel, making it unabsorbable and non-degradable by the human body.
The hydrogel injection is applied to the knee joint cavity and integrates with the synovial tissue, thereby thickening the synovial membrane.
 
What is the Synovial Membrane?
 
The knee joint is covered by a special thin membrane called synovium, composed of small synovial cells. The synovial membrane is responsible for producing the natural lubricating fluid in the joint. Known as synovial fluid, it aids in facilitating smooth joint movements. When there's an issue in the joint, inflammation of the synovial membrane, known as synovitis, occurs.
 
The hydrogel injection creates a stable and long-lasting layer covering the synovial membrane, potentially reducing synovial inflammation.
 
Once adhered to the synovial membrane, the hydrogel begins integrating with the adjacent joint capsule within a few weeks and functions as a scaffold. Essentially, it forms a kind of cushion inside the joint, aiding in bearing the joint's load. Additionally, it strengthens the joint capsule and increases its elasticity.
 
APPLICATION METHOD THE HYDROGEL INJECTION 
 
 It is a procedure conducted in a clinical setting under sterile conditions. Administered via a needle into the interior of the knee joint, a minimal amount of local anesthetic may be used to alleviate any discomfort during the process.
The hydrogel injection is a one-time application, eliminating the need for periodic injections.
 
POST HYDROGEL INJECTION 
 
Following the injection, the knee should be rested for at least 2-3 days. Avoiding strenuous activities is essential to minimize inflammation and flare-ups. Activities involving active use of the knee, such as running or extended walks, should be avoided.
 
The benefits of the injection typically start to be noticed around 4 weeks post-application. However, the full effect of the hydrogel needle may take up to 12 weeks. Since hydrogel isn't broken down by the body, it's claimed to provide pain relief for an extended period.
 
Orthopedic doctors and physiotherapists recommend a personalized exercise program for each patient and offer guidance on additional treatments. This is because a comprehensive approach is adopted in treating knee osteoarthritis, utilizing a combination of treatment methods.
 
NOT SUITABLE FOR WHOM? 
 
While hydrogel injection can benefit many patients, it might not be suitable for everyone. Individuals experiencing the following conditions are advised not to undergo hydrogel injection treatment:
● Those with existing infections within the knee or on the skin.
● Individuals who have undergone knee arthroscopy surgery within the last 6 months.
● Those with knee prostheses or implants.
● Individuals who recently received hyaluronic acid injections.
● People with specific health conditions affecting the joints, such as hemophilia, autoimmune diseases, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis.
Such individuals should consult their doctors for suitable treatment options and alternative therapies.
 
IS HYDROGEL TREATMENT TRULY EFFECTIVE IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS? 
 
Research conducted for knee osteoarthritis treatment has increased interest in non-surgical methods. Patients and physicians are hopeful about non-surgical approaches, although with disease progression, surgical intervention might become inevitable. In recent years, intra-articular hydrogel injections have gained popularity, claiming to heal knee osteoarthritis without surgery.
Studies and clinical experiences regarding the effectiveness of hydrogel treatment indicate its potential to reduce pain and improve joint function in certain patients. The positive effects have been observed to last for up to three years. However, five to ten-year follow-up studies are still ongoing.
 
Despite the promising benefits of hydrogel treatment, more data and comprehensive research are required to understand its long-term effects, side effects, and overall effectiveness. Furthermore, hydrogel treatment may not exhibit the same efficacy in every patient. While it might postpone the need for surgery in some cases, it might not eliminate the need entirely.
 
Moreover, hydrogel treatment has some limitations and disadvantages. Its high cost and the risk of side effects in certain patients are factors restricting access to treatment and creating an economic burden for some individuals.
In conclusion, there's no "one-size-fits-all" solution for treating knee osteoarthritis. Hydrogel treatment might be an effective option for specific situations. However, the most suitable treatment method should be determined based on the individual's condition, symptoms, and recommendations from the doctor. For information on the most suitable and effective treatment for you, please contact us.