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Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is the most common joint disease, characterized by the degeneration of joint cartilage. Intra-articular hyaluronic acid (IAHA) injections are a well-established non-surgical treatment. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed knee OA patients receiving IAHA combined with niacinamide injections, assessing pain reduction in relation to patient data, the number of injections, and radiological findings. Results: IAHA injections led to significant pain reduction on the numeric rating scale (NRS) (0–10), with a mean decrease of 3.34 ± 1.65. Pain relief was greater with multiple injections. A comparison of subgroups by injection frequency (1, 2, or >2) showed significant pain reduction between 1 and 2 injections (p = 0.027) and between 1 and >2 injections (p = 0.032). The OA grade measured using the Kellgren–Lawrence (p = 0.95) and Vallotton MRI classifications (p = 0.50) did not correlate with pain reduction. However, patients with meniscal damage (p = 0.02) showed a greater benefit. A strong positive correlation was found between baseline pain intensity and pain reduction (p < 0.001; r = 0.61). Conclusions: IAHA with niacinamide significantly reduces knee OA pain, with more injections enhancing pain relief. Greater benefits were observed in patients with higher baseline pain and meniscal damage. The favorable safety profile and potential for repeated treatments make IAHA a valuable option in knee OA management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effects of different carrier frequencies of interferential current (IFC) treatment on a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), 10-m walk test, and the amount of paracetamol taken. Patients and methods: The double-blind, randomized controlled study included 61 patients (16 males, 45 females; mean age: 63.7±9.8 years; range, 50 to 80 years) with knee osteoarthritis who were randomized to three treatment groups: 2,000 Hz, 4,000 Hz, and 8,000 Hz. The study was conducted between February 2019 and October 2019. Subjects received IFC treatment for 20 min five times per week for three weeks. All subjects were prescribed a home exercise program. Patients were evaluated at baseline and at three and seven weeks. The primary outcome was VAS to assess knee pain. Results: Treatment with IFC yielded significant results in VAS pain, WOMAC pain, and WOMAC function parameters in all three groups, but no significant difference was shown among the three groups. The WOMAC stiffness parameter was found to benefit from the treatment only in the first group, while the 10-m walk test improved for the first and third groups. The number of paracetamol tablets taken differed significantly neither in nor among the treatment groups. Conclusion: Previous trials have found a significant reduction in knee pain levels and an increase in function with IFC treatment, although there is no consensus on which carrier frequencies and duration to choose for IFC treatment. In this study, we detected significant benefits for all the different carrier frequency groups but were not able to show any to be superior to the others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis of the knee (OAK), a progressive degenerative disease affecting quality of life, is characterized by cartilage degeneration, synovial inflammation, and osteophyte formation causing pain and disability. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous blood product effective in reducing OAK-associated pain. PRP compositions depend on their purification. In clinical practice, PRP is typically administered immediately after purification, while cryopreserved PRP is used in research. Platelets are activated by freezing followed by release of their humoral factors. Therefore, PRP without any manipulation after purification (utPRP) and freeze–thawed PRP (fPRP) may differ in their properties. We purified leukocyte-poor PRP (LPPRP) and autologous protein solution (APS) to compare the properties of utPRPs and fPRPs and their effects on OAK target cells. We found significant differences in platelet activation and humoral factor content between utPRPs and fPRPs in both LPPRP and APS. Freeze–thawing affected the anti-inflammatory properties of LPPRP and APS in chondrocytes and synovial cells differed. Both utPRPs and fPRPs inhibited polarization toward M1 macrophages while promoting polarization toward M2 macrophages. Freeze–thawing specifically affected humoral factor production in macrophages, suggesting that evaluating the efficacy of PRPs requires considering PRP purification methods, properties, and conditions. Understanding these variations may enhance therapeutic application of PRPs in OAK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yan Wu,1 Zhenzhen Xu,2 Jing Dong,3 Wenzhong Zhang,2 Jing Li,2 Hong Ji1 1Department of Nursing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital), Jinan, Shandong, 250014, People’s Republic of China; 2School of Nursing, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong Province, 250014, People’s Republic of China; 3School of Nursing, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, Shandong Province, 271016, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Hong Ji, Department of Nursing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University (Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital), Jinan, Shandong, 250014, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-13791120369, Email honghongji-2005@163.comBackground: Older age and female sex are risk factors for osteoarthritis and osteoporosis (OP). This study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) in China regarding OP and its prevention. This cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study enrolled patients with KOA at four grade-A tertiary hospitals in Shandong Province between 1st September and 20th November 2022.Methods: The administered questionnaire contained 55 items across four dimensions (demographic information, knowledge, attitude, and practice). Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with an overall questionnaire score ≥ 70% of the maximum possible score. SPSS 26.0 was used for the analyses; P< 0.05 was considered significant.Results: The analysis included 434 participants (261 females). The median knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 7 (interquartile range: 5– 10) (possible range, 0– 17 points), 44 (interquartile range: 42– 49) (possible range, 11– 55 points), and 43 (interquartile range: 38– 47) (possible range, 13– 65 points), respectively. Multivariable logistic regression indicated that female sex (odds ratio [OR], 2.421; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.558– 3.762; P< 0.001), age 56– 65 years-old (OR, 4.222; 95% CI, 1.763– 10.109; P=0.001 vs ≤ 55 years-old), age > 65 years-old (OR, 4.358; 95% CI, 1.863– 10.195; P=0.001 vs ≤ 55 years-old), middle/high/technical secondary school education (OR, 1.853; 95% CI, 1.002– 3.428; P=0.049 vs primary school or below), and having KOA for 4– 5 years (OR, 2.682; 95% CI, 1.412– 5.094; P=0.003 vs ≤ 3 years) were independently associated with a high KAP score.Conclusion: There is room for improvement in the knowledge and practices of patients with osteoarthritis in China regarding OP. The findings of this study may facilitate the design and implementation of education programs to increase awareness about OP prevention among patients with KOA.Keywords: osteoarthritis of the knee, osteoporosis, disease prevention, surveys and questionnaires, health knowledge, attitudes, practice

Introduction: Osteoarthritis of the knee (OA knee) is a common geriatric disease that require total knee arthroplasty. Periprosthetic fracture is one of the common complications, which is strongly related to metabolic bone disease. Materials and methods: We conducted a prospective study on 291 outpatients with OA knee between November 2020 and April 2021. Baseline characteristics, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and blood test results were analysed using logistic regression analysis and expressed as odds ratio, 95% confidence intervals and P -values. Results: Overall metabolic bone diseases were found in 82.91% of patients. Vitamin D insufficiency (53.38%) was the most prevalent, followed by osteopenia (44.38%), impaired renal function (26.69%), and osteoporosis (17.45%). Risk factors of vitamin D insufficiency are age ≥71 years (OR 0.33, P = 0.003) and bilateral affected side (OR 1.99, P = 0.007). For osteopenia and osteoporosis, risk factors were age, body mass index, affected side, and chronic kidney disease (P < 0.05). Discussion: In the aspect of Vit D insufficiency, age>70 and bilateral OA knee were significantly related in many ways, such as reduction in cutaneous synthesis and daily exposure to sunlight and various diseases, including CKD and GI malabsorption. The risk factors of osteopenia and osteoporosis can be explained throughout several mechanisms. For instance, abnormality in hormone and cytokines metabolism will lead to the increase in adipocyte differentiation and fat accumulation. And that situation may lead to the decrease in osteoblast differentiation and increased osteoclast activity which could lead to negative impact on bone strength. Conclusions: Metabolic bone diseases were common in most patients with OA knee, and the insufficiency in amount of vitamin D(serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D), osteoporosis, and osteopenia conditions were mainly identified. These preventable conditions have risk factors that are mostly correctable These preventable conditions have risk factors that are mostly correctable, for example gain more outdoor activities, consume vitamin D supplement or start osteoporosis treatment program. Further analysis is necessary to establish solid evidence in the comparison of risk factors between the OA and non-OA groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Angiogenesis and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) are involved in osteoarthritis (OA). We previously reported the inhibitory effect of bevacizumab in a rabbit model of OA. In the current study, we investigated the effects of lenvatinib, an angiogenesis inhibitor targeting the VEGF and fibroblast growth factor receptors, on synovitis, osteophyte formation, and cartilage degeneration in a rabbit OA model. Posttraumatic OA was induced by anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) on one knee of each rabbit. Rabbits were placed into four groups according to the following lenvatinib doses: untreated control (n = 12), L0.3: 0.3 mg/kg/day (n = 15), L1.0: 1.0 mg/kg/day (n = 14), and L3.0: 3.0 mg/kg/day (n = 13) groups. We evaluated limb pain using the weight distribution ratio measured with an incapacitance tester, macroscopic osteophyte formation, and femoral condyle synovium and cartilage histology. For cartilage evaluation, the following distal sites of the femur were evaluated separately: femoral–tibial (FT), femoral–patellar (FP), and femoral corner (between FP and FT). The weight distribution ratio at 12 weeks after surgery was higher in the L0.3 and L1.0 groups than in the control group. Osteophyte formation and synovitis scores were significantly lower in the L0.3, L1.0, and L3.0 groups than in the control group. The Osteoarthritis Research Society International scores of the FT, corner, and FP sites in the L0.3 group were lower than in the control group. The cartilage thickness ratio at the FT and corner sites was significantly lower in the L0.3 group than in the control group. Krenn's grading system of cartilage synovitis showed that all lenvatinib-administered groups had significantly lower scores than the control group. MMP3 expression level in cartilage tissue was significantly lower in the L3.0 group compared with the other three groups. ADAMTS5 expression was lower in the L3.0 group compared with the control and L0.3 groups. Oral administration of lenvatinib inhibited synovitis, osteophyte formation, and cartilage degeneration and reduced pain in a rabbit ACLT model. Lenvatinib is an oral VEGF inhibitor that is easier to administer than other VEGF inhibitors and may have potential as a treatment of posttraumatic OA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To observe the effect of Chonggu granules on clinical symptoms and related laboratory indicators in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Methods The 60 patients with KOA were divided into two groups, with 30 cases each in the treatment group and the control group. The patients in the control group received oral glucosamine hydrochloride tablets, patients in the treatment group receive Chonggu granules on the basis of the control group, and the treatment period was 12 weeks. The change of efficacy evaluation scale and TCM symptom score before and after treatment were observed. C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), IL-6, IFN-γ, and bone metabolism and biochemical indexes (urine Ca, urine P, BALP, TRACP-5b, and IGF-1), matrix metalloproteinase indexes (MMP-1, MMP-13), and serum OPG, RANKL level and OPG/RANKL ratio were detected. Results There were no case of exfoliation in either group. The clinical efficacy indicators in both groups after treatment were improved compared with those before treatment. The levels of efficacy evaluation scale, TCM symptom score, CRP, ESR, IL-6, IFN-γ, urine Ca, urine P, TRACP-5b, MMP-1, MMP-13, and RANKL in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group after treatment (P<0.05 or P<0.01), and the levels of BALP, IGF-1 and OPG were significantly higher than those in the control group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). No significant adverse effect was observed in either group. Conclusion Heavy bone granules effectively improve the clinical symptoms, inflammatory factors, and bone metabolism levels of patients with KOA. The mechanism may be related to the expression of OPG/RANKL/RANK signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provided an overview of narrative reviews, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses that summarize primary evidence of how physical activity (PA) relates to structural progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA). This overview can serve as a resource for healthcare providers when recommend-ing PA to patients with, or at risk, for knee OA. We searched the PubMED database for publications on "exercise" [MeSH Terms] and "knee osteoarthritis" [MeSH Terms]. We restricted our search to review articles, originally published in English, from 2005 to 2020. We then added several original studies to provide more detailed support of the findings of the review articles, based on the authors familiarity with the literature. We summarized the findings of 20 reviews and an additional 12 original studies. We found consistent evidence that common forms of PA (walking, running, and certain recreational sports) are not related to structural progression of knee OA, and can be safely recommended to patients with, or at risk, for knee OA. Healthcare providers can refer to this overview of the evidence, as well as current PA guidelines, when recommending PA to their patients with, or at risk for, knee OA. Future studies can support PA guidelines that target preserving the structural integrity of the knees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the combined hydrolyzed type 2 collagen, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), glucosamine sulfate (GS), and chondroitin sulfate (CS) supplement on knee pain intensity in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Patients and methods: This multicenter, observational, noninterventional study included 98 patients (78 females, 20 males; mean age: 52.8±6.5 years; range, 40 to 64 years) who had Grade 1-3 knee OA between May 2022 and November 2022. The patients were prescribed the combination of hydrolyzed type 2 collagen, MSM, GS, and CS as a supplement for knee OA. The sachet form of the combined supplement containing 1250 mg hydrolyzed type 2 collagen, 750 mg MSM, 750 mg GS, and 400 mg CS was used once daily for two consecutive months. Patients were evaluated according to the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Visual Analog Scale (VAS)-pain, and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). Patients were scheduled to visit for follow-up four weeks (Visit 2) and eight weeks (Visit 3) after Visit 1 (baseline; day 0 of the study). Results: For the VAS-pain, WOMAC, WOMAC-subscale, and HAQ scores, the differences in improvement between the three visits were significant (p<0.001 for all). The patient compliance with the supplement was a median of 96.77%, both for Visit 2 and Visit 3. Conclusion: The combination of hydrolyzed type 2 collagen, MSM, GS, and CS for eight weeks in knee OA was considered an effective and safe nutritional supplement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: it is estimated that 302 million people worldwide are affected by osteoarthritis, corresponding to 60% osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, which responsible 80% of disability in older adults, hence the importance of the association of the sign with the early inflammatory process in OA. Objective: to determine the association of digital pressure sign in patients with and without osteoarthritis of the knee. Material and methods: this was an observational, comparative cross-sectional study, carried out in patients with and without a diagnosis of knee OA, to whom the digital pressure sign was determined. The sample was calculated with the formula for two proportions, obtaining a total of 40 participants per group, obtained by non-probabilistic sampling for convenience. The statistical analysis included frequencies, percentages, χ² and OR. The bioethics regulations in force were respected. Results: the study included 80 participants, with a median age of 48.9 years (RQI 46-53.7), 73.1% were predominantly female sex (38), and a statistically significant association was found between patients with OA and the presence of digital pressure sign, χ² 4.62 and p value = 0.41, OR of 2.65. Conclusions: the presence of digital pressure sign increases the probability of having OA 2.65 times more. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) is a debilitating degenerative joint ailment afflicting millions of patients. Numerous studies have assessed the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from various sources for KOA treatment, yet direct comparisons are scarce and inconsistent. Furthermore, network meta-analysis (NMA) conclusions require updating, while the safety of MSCs therapy remains contentious. This study evaluates therapeutic approaches involving MSCs from different sources in patients with KOA through randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies. The objective is to compare the effectiveness and safety of MSCs strategies from various sources for KOA treatment. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted to identify RCTs and cohort studies comparing different sources of MSCs in KOA patients. A randomized effects network meta-analysis was used to concurrently evaluate both direct and indirect comparisons across all protocols. Results: The NMA included 16 RCTS and reported 1005 participants. Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) were the most effective treatment, showing significant improvements in the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the Short Form 36 (SF-36 scale), the International Knee Literature Committee Knee Evaluation Scale (IKDC subjective scores), and the Knee Injury and OA Outcome Score (KOOS). The probabilities are P = 85.3, P = 70.5, P = 88 and P = 87, respectively. Compared with placebo, AD-MSCs resulted in a VAS Score (SMD 0.97; 95%CI 0.37, 1.57), IKDC subjective scores (SMD −0.71; 95%CI −1.20, −0.21) was significantly reduced. Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) showed significant improvements in the University of Western Ontario and McMaster University OA (WOMAC) (P = 91.4). Compared with placebo, UC-MSCs had a higher WOMAC Score (SMD 1.65; 95%CI 0.27, 3.03) and ranked first. Compared with MSCs, placebo emerged as the safer option (P = 74.9), with a notable reduction in AEs associated with HA treatment (RR 0.77; 95%CI 0.61, 0.97). AD-MSCs were found to have the least favorable impact on AEs with a probability of P = 13.3. Conclusions: This network meta-analysis established that MSCs offer pain relief and enhance various knee scores in KOA patients compared to conventional treatment. It also identifies other therapeutic avenues warranting further exploration through high-quality studies. Nonetheless, it underscores the necessity to emphasize the potential complications and safety concerns associated with MSCs.

Objective: to evaluate the efficacy and safety of simultaneous intramuscular administration of Traumeel® S and Zeel® T followed by therapy with the tablet medication Zeel® T in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) and concomitant cardiovascular diseases. Material and methods. The analysis included 119 patients aged 45–79 years (78.2 % women and 21.8 % men) with confirmed diagnosis of knee OA according to Altman criteria, stage II–III according to Kellgren–Lawrence and confirmed cardiovascular disease. The main indicator of efficacy was the change in pain intensity in the target knee joint according to the “Pain” subscale of the WOMAC questionnaire (A) at the final examination compared to the baseline. Other criteria were the dynamics of each symptom of knee OA according to the WOMAC questionnaire (pain, stiffness, and functional impairment, total score) on each visit, pain intensity in the target joint on a visual analogue scale (VAS), time it takes to travel 15 m, and the patient's overall disease assessment on the VAS. In addition, duration of use and dose of paracetamol (if used) were assessed, as well as quality of life by EuroQol and adverse events (AEs). Treatment safety was also analyzed in patients who had received at least one dose of the study drug. Results and discussion. WOMAC pain intensity decreased by on average of 3.8 points: from 7.6 to 3.8 points (95 % confidence interval, CI from -4.3 to -3.3). Data on changes in knee OA symptoms (pain, stiffness, and functional impairment) for each WOMAC subscale and the total score showed significant improvement at each follow-up visit (p < 0.0001). The VAS pain level decreased by 52%. An improvement in joint function was noted: the time it takes to travel 15 m fell from 19.5 to 16.4 s (p < 0.0001). The EuroQol quality of life score also improved from 57.1 ± 16.2 points at baseline to 71.1 ± 14.8 points on the 84th day of therapy. Thirty (25.2 %) patients had AEs, mainly neurological: headache (7.6 %) and hypoesthesia (1.7 %). No serious AEs were recorded. An association between AEs and study drug use was noted in 4 patients (headache, hypoesthesia, muscle cramps, and injection site pain). Conclusion. The results of the study confirm the efficacy and safety of the use of Traumeel® S and Zeel® T in patients with knee OA who have concomitant cardiovascular disease. During therapy, a significant decrease in pain and other clinical signs of OA (stiffness, limitation of physical activity) was observed, which allows us to recommend this treatment regimen for patients with comorbid pathology, as well as with the risk of developing of AEs during non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs therapy.

Objective: Osteoarthritis of the knee (knee OA) is a serious joint disease leading to pain and reduced quality of life. Pharmacological treatments include anti-inflammatories, analgesics, intraarticular hyaluronic acid, and intraarticular corticosteroids while for severe knee OA, knee replacement is an option. This study examined the incidence, prevalence, patient characteristics, and uptake of medical and surgical treatments in knee OA patients in Germany. Design: A non-interventional, retrospective health claims data analysis with anonymized data from the InGef database was performed. Patients ≥18 years were analyzed cross-sectionally for each year 2015–2020. Newly diagnosed patients in 2015 were also longitudinally analyzed until end of 2020. Results: Annual knee OA prevalence increased from 7.07 ​% in 2015 to 7.39 ​% in 2020. Annual incidence proportions ranged from 1.71 ​% in 2015 to 1.46 ​% in 2020. Knee replacement was the most common surgery, with rising patient numbers (e.g., 7918 patients in 2015 and 8975 patients in 2019). Approximately 62 ​% of patients newly diagnosed in 2015 received prescription pharmacological pain treatment during follow-up. Most (96.95 ​%) received non-opioid analgesics, followed by weak opioids (8.14 ​%) and strong opioids (3.00 ​%) as first-line treatment (combinations possible). Knee surgery was performed in 16.6 ​% of patients during follow-up. Median time from first diagnosis until surgery was 346 days for any knee surgery and 564 days for knee replacement. Conclusions: The number of patients with knee OA in Germany is steadily rising, along with an increasing number of surgical interventions, especially knee replacement. Time until first surgery and knee replacement is relatively short, even for newly diagnosed patients.

Summary: Background: Painful knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is common, pharmacological treatment, however, is often hampered by limited tolerability. Cannabidiol, which preclinically showed anti-inflammatory, analgesic activity, could supplement established analgesics, but robust clinical trials are lacking. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of oral high-dose CBD administered over 8 weeks on pain, function and patient global assessment as an add-on to continued paracetamol in chronic symptomatic KOA. Methods: Prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group study. Single center, Outpatient Clinic, Department of Special Anaesthesia and Pain Therapy at Medical University of Vienna, Austria. Eligibility criteria included: age: 18–98 years; painful KOA; score ≥5 on the pain subscale of the Western Ontario and McMasters Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) Index; KOA confirmed by imaging. Participants were on continued dosage of paracetamol 3 g/d and randomly assigned by web-based software 1:1 to oral cannabidiol 600 mg/d (n = 43) or placebo (n = 43). Study period: 8 weeks. Primary outcome: Change in WOMAC pain subscale scores (0 = no pain, 10 = worst possible pain) from baseline to week 8 of treatment. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04607603. Trial is completed. Findings: The trial was conducted from October 1, 2020 to March 29, 2022. 159 patients screened, 86 randomized. Among 86 participants (mean age, 62.8 [SD 20.3] years; 60 females [69.8%]), 58 (67.4%) completed the trial. Mean baseline WOMAC pain subscale was 6.0 ± 1.1. Analysis: Intention-to-treat principal. Mean reduction in WOMAC pain subscale was 2.5 (95% CI: 1.8–3.3) in the cannabidiol group and 2.4 (95% CI: 1.7–3.2) in the placebo group with no significant group difference (p = 0.80). Adverse events were significantly more frequent with cannabidiol (cannabidiol: 135 [56%]; placebo: 105 [44%]) (p = 0.008). Rise above baseline of liver aminotransferases and gamma-glutamyltransferase was significantly more common in the cannabidiol (n = 15) than the placebo group (n = 5) (p = 0.02). Interpretation: In KOA patients, oral high-dose add-on cannabidiol had no additional analgesic effect compared to adding placebo to continued paracetamol. Our results do not support the use of cannabidiol as an analgesic supplement in KOA. Funding: Trigal Pharma GmbH.

Background/Aim: Osteoarthritis is one of the most common degenerative conditions that causes pain, stiffness, and decreased functionality. The management of knee osteoarthritis necessitates collaboration among specialists from different disciplines, considering the primary clinical manifestations and functional level of the disease. The aim of this study was to highlight the disparities in postoperative outcomes between knee arthroplasty procedures with and without non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The study specifically focuses on the immediate advantages and outcomes observed at the 6- month milestone. Patients and Methods: This study followed 713 patients who were randomly divided into two groups: a group that did not receive non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (N-NSAIDs) consisting of 394 patients, and a group that received non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) comprising 319 patients. The study spanned a duration of 5 years (2018-2022), with patients being followed and evaluated for up to 6 months after the surgery. Results: It was observed that, from a therapeutic standpoint, the use of injectable treatments decreased. Significantly better differences were recorded in the N-NSAIDs group regarding return to pre-osteoarthritis activities at 6 months and reduced or absent night pain at 3 months (p<0.05). Conclusion: Statistically significant improvements were observed in the N-NSAIDs group concerning the ability to resume pre-osteoarthritis activities within 6 months, as well as a reduction or absence of nighttime pain within 3 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To observe the effect of modified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) hot compress technique in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee. Methods Totally 60 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee were randomly divided into the observation group and control group, with 30 cases in each group. The control group received conventional TCM hot compress technique, and the observation group received the modified hot compress technique by optimizing the size of Chinese herbal medicine package, regulating duration of treatment, and monitoring the temperature with electric temperature controller. Visual Analogue Scale was used to measure the pain, and Lysholm knee scale was used to measure the function of affected knee joint. The clinical effective rate and incidence of nursing adverse events were compared between two groups. Results The VAS score in the observation group was lower than that in the control group (P＜0. 01), The incidence of scalds in the observation group was lower than that in the control group (P＜0. 05). There was no significant difference in Lysholm knee scale and treatment efficacy between two groups (P＞0. 05). Conclusion Modified TCM hot compress technique has a remarkable curative effect in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis, which can relieve pain and improve the function of knee joint, and it is a safe technique in clinical practice . (目的 观察改良式中药热敷技术治疗膝骨关节炎的效果。方法 选取科室所收治的膝骨关节患者60例为研究对象, 采用随机数字法分为观察组和对照组, 各30例。对照组采用常规中药热敷治疗, 观察组在常规热敷治疗基础上, 改良中药药包的外形尺寸、治疗时间, 并应用电子温控仪进行恒定温度控制药包温度。采用VAS评分评估疼痛程度, 采用 Lysholm 膝关节功能评分评估患膝功能, 对比两组干预效果, 记录不良事件发生情况。结果 干预后观察组VAS评分改善优于对照组(P＜0. 01), 烫伤发生率低于对照组(P＜0. 05); 两组Lysholm 膝关节功能评分和临床疗效评价差异无统计学意义(P＞0. 05)。结论 改良式中药热敷技术治疗膝骨关节炎疗效明确, 能有效缓解疼痛, 改善膝关节功能, 提升中医治疗和护理安全性。)

Introduction: Due to the shifting of weight more on the medial side of the knee, more cartilage destruction occurs medially, and subsequently, varus deformity occurs. A corrective osteotomy to alter the weight-bearing axis will be ideal to slow down the degenerative process. The success of an osteotomy around the knee depends on the biomechanics of the lower extremity, load distribution in the knee, and also on the mechanical properties of the implants used for osteotomy fixation. The aim of the study is to know the functional outcome of open-wedge high tibial osteotomy in medial compartmental osteoarthritis of the knee joint. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was done at the tertiary center of Bihar between May 2016 and September 2018. Bilateral weight-bearing anteroposterior view in full extension and standing scannogram was taken preoperatively. Patients were operated and evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months by the Japanese Orthopaedic association knee score and Japanese Orthopaedic association system. Results: Medial opening-wedge osteotomy was performed in 26 knees of 24 in which there were 10 male and 14 female patients. Of the 26 knees operated, 16 were of the left side and 10 of the right side. Of the 26 knees operated, 6 (23%) had excellent outcome, 12 (47%) had good outcome, 4 (15%) had fair, and 4 (15%) had poor outcome. The poor result of three patients was correlated to superficial infection and the other patients due to inadequate correction. Five patients had superficial infection and one patient had hardware prominence causing pain and two patients had under correction of varus. Conclusion: From this prospective study, it can be concluded that medial open-wedge high tibial osteotomy is a useful option in medial compartmental osteoarthritis of the knee joint and relieves pain and improves functional outcomes in patients.

Simple Summary: Terpenes are emerging as a new complementary therapy for several chronic diseases, but their effects on inflammatory cytokines are not fully clear. The aim of this study was to deepen the understanding of how a hemp seed oil and terpene-based dietary supplement modifies blood cytokine levels in a population of patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis, in comparison with a similar one containing hemp seed oil only. A total of 38 patients were selected using specific criteria and subsequently divided into two subgroups of 19 patients each that underwent a 45-day treatment with these two different dietary supplements. Blood samples were taken immediately before and after this therapy. The group which received hemp seed oil and terpenes had a significant rise in their IL-6 levels and a significant decrease in their IL-1β levels. These blood changes could be the biochemical basis on which to build an anti-inflammatory action at the joint level, consequently opening up new scenarios to follow in the integrative therapies of osteoarthritis. Background: Hemp seed oil and terpenes are emerging as a dietary supplement and complementary therapy for patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis (KOA). However, the mechanisms and effects induced by these molecules on inflammatory cytokines are not yet fully understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in the cytokine IL-1β, IL-1α, IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-α levels from two oral hemp seed oil-based dietary supplements, of which only one included the addition of terpenes, in a population of KOA patients. Methods: Sera from venous blood samples were collected from thirty-eight patients who were divided into two subgroups. The control group underwent a 45-day treatment with a dietary supplement containing only hemp seed oil, while the treatment group assumed a hemp seed oil and terpene-based dietary supplement for the same number of days. A Bio-Plex Human Cytokine assay was performed by a customized human cytokine five-plex panel for IL-1β, IL-1α, IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-α. Patients were evaluated before the beginning of the treatment (T0) and soon after it (T1). Results: No measurable levels of IL-2 and TNF-α were found in any of the subjects. Low levels of IL-1β were found, which were significantly decreased in the treatment group. No change in IL-1α levels was observed, while treated patients had a significant increase in IL-6 levels. Conclusions: Hemp seed oil and terpene treatment modified the IL-1β and IL-6 levels, counteracting KOA inflammation in this way. In this study, IL-6 revealed its new and alternative action, since it is traditionally known as a pro-inflammatory factor, but it recently has been found to have anti-inflammatory activity in the muscle-derived form, which is the one it assumes as a myokine when activated by terpenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Osteoarthritis of the knee (OAK) causes severe pain and sometimes disability, which reduces the quality of life and work capacity of patients. Today, the prevalence of OAK is increases; therefore, the development of methods for its treatment and the use of means that slow down or stop the progression of OAK are relevant. Since OAK is a slowly progressive disease, the search for effective drugs with minimal toxicity and a long-lasting effect, which prevent the destruction of articular cartilage and improve the working conditions of the patient, is ongoing. Thus, the main goals of OAK treatment are to reduce symptoms and slow the progression of the disease, which can reduce the negative impact of OAK on the patient’s functional capacity, as well as improve quality of life. OAK is characterized by the progressive destruction of the articular cartilage, especially when it bears a load. In the joint, cartilage aggrecan is the main structural component that provides hydrophilicity and allows to withstand compression loads. Aggrecan is a complex of proteoglycans with hyaluronic acid and is characterized by a high content of chondroitin sulfate chains, while proteoglycan consists of protein and glycosaminoglycan chains (the precursor of the latter is glucosamine). Therefore, it is believed that the treatment of OAK with glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate can stimulate the synthesis of proteoglycan and thereby slow down the process of joint degeneration and promote their recovery in OAK. These cartilage metabolites are produced in the human body and are important components of joints for their functioning. Purpose: to conduct an analysis of literature data on the effectiveness of chondroprotective agents in comparison with other pharmacological groups for the elimination of pain and inflammation during the treatment of OAK. Materials and methods. The search for scientific information was carried out in PubMed, Google Scholar electronic databases. Results. A search for literature on chondroprotective agents was conducted and the effectiveness of chondroprotective agents to eliminate pain and inflammation in the treatment of OAK was analyzed in comparison with other pharmacological groups. Conclusions. Chondroprotective agents have particular advantages in the symptomatic treatment of OAK: chondroitin sulfate is a natural glycosaminoglycan (found in cartilage and extracellular matrix) and therefore has advantages in the symptomatic treatment of OAK due to its anti-inflammatory activity. Besides, in OAK, chondroitin sulfate provides resistance to compression, maintaining the structural integrity of cartilage, and homeostasis, slowing down its destruction and reducing pain in inflamed muscles. It is most often used in combination with glu cosamine sulfate for the treatment of OAK, as the latter plays a key role in the regulation of the processes of cell development and ad hesion, proliferation and differentiation of cartilage. These agents (glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate) are used as symptomatically slow-acting drugs in OAK. No serious side effects or overdos es have been reported in the literature, suggesting their safety in the long-term treatment of OAK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a high-priority problem among the aging population. While exercise has been shown to be beneficial in management of the disease, scalable and low-cost interventions to improve exercise in this population are lacking. Recent controversy over the value of corticosteroid injections for palliation has also arisen. Therefore, we designed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial with a 2-period crossover design to study (1) behavioral incentives to promote exercise and (2) corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and improve function in patients with KOA when compared to lidocaine only. Methods The study design is a pragmatic factorial and crossover randomized clinical trial. Patients with KOA who are deemed eligible by their provider to receive knee injections and are able to walk without assistive devices will be recruited from clinical practices at four sites within the Veterans Affairs (VA) Health System in the USA. In total, 220 participants will be randomized to receive social incentives with gamification (i.e., incorporation of game elements) to promote exercise and compared to controls that receive a Fitbit but no incentive. Each patient will also be assigned to receive a blinded corticosteroid injection and a lidocaine-only injection in random order. The primary outcomes are the change in average daily step counts from baseline and the change in Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) from baseline. The study team will continuously collect step count, heart rate, and sleep data using activity monitors and patient-reported outcomes using the Way to Health (WTH) platform at two four-week intervals over eight months of follow-up. Mixed effects regression incorporating all available data points will be used for analysis. Discussion The “Marching on for Veterans with Osteoarthritis of the Knee” (MOVE-OK) trial will take a pragmatic approach to evaluate (1) whether incentives based on behaviorally enhanced gamification can improve physical activity in this patient population and (2) whether corticosteroids injections reduce pain and disability in patients with KOA. Results of this trial will help to direct clinical practice and inform management guidelines. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05035810 . Registered on 5 September 2021.

Abstract Background Knee osteoarthritis (OA) and depression are both major health issues influencing the quality of elderly life. The aim of the present study was to explore the prevalence of depression and the factors influencing depression in community-dwelling elderly patients with OA of the knee in China. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study. The study included 214 participants aged 60 and older diagnosed with OA of the knee. The depression of the elderly was measured by using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Participants were asked to complete a demographic questionnaire, the GDS, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), the society dimension of Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2 (AIMS2). In addition, the participants performed a timed up and go test (TUG) and the stair-climb test (SCT). Results The average age of the participants was 69.2 ± 7.63 years old, their body mass index (BMI) was 25.2 ± 3.85, and their disease duration was 5.9 ± 7.72 years. The mean total score of the GDS was 4.43 ± 2.89, and the GDS scores correlated positively with pain (r = 0.45, P

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY Partial knee replacement appears to be an appropriate surgical solution of unicompartmental knee joint osteoarthritis in correctly indicated cases. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the mid-term outcomes of unicondylar knee replacement using the Oxford Phase III system in the group of patients treated by the First Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, St. Anne s University Hospital Brno. MATERIAL AND METHODS The prospective study evaluated 47 patients (in 4 patients bilaterally) after the Oxford unicompartmental knee replacement performed between 2011 and 2016. The patients were evaluated using the Knee Society Score (KSS), Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and radiological examination performed at 7.3 years after surgery on average. All the patients were operated on by the same surgeon. RESULTS Based on the questionnaires and the clinical examination, the clinical and functional status was assessed, using the Knee Society Score (KSS). The mean preoperative KSS and FS values were 59.8 and 56.5, respectively. The postoperative KSS and FS values were 91.2 and 83.4. The mean preoperative value of the Oxford Knee Score (OKS) was 27.3. Postoperatively the values reached 40.7 on average. Based on the radiological examination, the lower limb correction of axis in the frontal plane was assessed. The mean axis correction was 3.1°. The mean tibial component slope measured on lateral radiograph was 82.7°. The basic analysis of X-rays did not reveal any component malposition. The implant survival rate was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier cumulative survival curve. In our group of patients, the mean survival rate of Oxford Phase III unicondylar knee replacement at 7.3 years postoperatively is 98.0%. DISCUSSION Many studies have reported excellent results of unicondylar knee replacement and a long survival rate of over 90%. Still debated, however, are the indication criteria and also the importance of the surgeon s experience and mastery of the surgical technique. CONCLUSIONS The results of the study confirm our excellent clinical experience and the survival rate of 98% at the mean follow up of 7.3 years after surgery shows great promise for quality long-term results. Overall, crucial for the success of UKR continues to be the compliance with the indication criteria for surgery. The choice of the type of implant and, last but not least, the correct surgical technique and postoperative rehabilitation programme are also important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the impact of varus malalignment of the knee on pain reduction achieved by an ankle-foot orthosis and a laterally wedged insole in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis. Design: Secondary analysis of a randomized, clinically prospective cross-over study. Patients: Twenty-eight participants with medial knee osteoarthritis. Methods: All participants wore a 5-mm laterally wedged insole and an ankle-foot orthosis for a period of 6 weeks each in a randomized order. Pain was reported on a numerical rating scale and was correlated with limb alignment, as defined by the mechanical axis deviation in full-leg standing radiographs. Results: Insole and orthosis use reduced pain compared with baseline (median knee pain change: insole –0.5 (–5 to +6), orthosis –1.5 (–7 to +5). A higher mechanical axis deviation (greater varus) correlated significantly with smaller pain reduction for both aids (insole p = 0.003, orthosis p < 0.001). A cut-off to predict pain response was found at a mechanical axis deviation of 14–15 mm for both aids, i.e. > 3° knee varus. Conclusion: There is a correlation between varus malalignment and pain reduction. There seems to be a mechanical axis deviation cut-off that predicts the response to treatment with the aids with good sensitivity. LAY ABSTRACT Osteoarthritis of the knee can be treated using orthoses and insoles to unload the most damaged and painful inner (medial) part of the knee. However, patients do not benefit equally from these devices and there is not enough scientific data to predict which patients will benefit from an orthosis or insole. This study investigated whether the genu varum (degree of bow-leggedness) correlates with pain reduction when using an insole or an ankle-foot orthosis. A total of 28 patients with knee osteoarthritis received both aids, each for a period of 6 weeks, in random order. They documented knee pain before and after using the devices. Radiographs of the leg were analysed to determine the degree of genu varum. Statistical analysis showed that patients with straighter legs experienced better pain reduction with both aids than did bow-legged patients. In conclusion, ankle-foot orthoses and insoles are less effective in bow-legged patients.

Nine participants undergoing primary TKA submitted to spinal anesthesia, sedation, ultrasound-guided obturator and Femoral nerve Block analgesia, and photobiomodulation Therapy (FBMT) were evaluated regarding postoperative pain and morphine consumption. FBMT sessions were performed in the Immediate Postoperative period (IPO) and after 24 hours. Participants received 16.7±15 mg of morphine up to the third postoperative day. At IPO, mean pain score was 4.8±3.2 and 5.6±3.5, at rest and on movement, respectively. Photo biomodulation therapy can be considered an option for mitigating pain for patients undergoing TKA.

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a high-priority problem among the aging population. While exercise has been shown to be beneficial in management of the disease, scalable and low-cost interventions to improve exercise in this population are lacking. Recent controversy over the value of corticosteroid injections for palliation has also arisen. Therefore, we designed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial with a 2-period crossover design to study (1) behavioral incentives to promote exercise and (2) corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and improve function in patients with KOA when compared to lidocaine only.Methods: The study design is a pragmatic factorial and crossover randomized clinical trial. Patients with KOA who are deemed eligible by their provider to receive knee injections and are able to walk without assistive devices will be recruited from clinical practices at four sites within the Veterans Affairs (VA) Health System in the USA. In total, 220 participants will be randomized to receive social incentives with gamification (i.e., incorporation of game elements) to promote exercise and compared to controls that receive a Fitbit but no incentive. Each patient will also be assigned to receive a blinded corticosteroid injection and a lidocaine-only injection in random order. The primary outcomes are the change in average daily step counts from baseline and the change in Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) from baseline. The study team will continuously collect step count, heart rate, and sleep data using activity monitors and patient-reported outcomes using the Way to Health (WTH) platform at two four-week intervals over eight months of follow-up. Mixed effects regression incorporating all available data points will be used for analysis.Discussion: The "Marching on for Veterans with Osteoarthritis of the Knee" (MOVE-OK) trial will take a pragmatic approach to evaluate (1) whether incentives based on behaviorally enhanced gamification can improve physical activity in this patient population and (2) whether corticosteroids injections reduce pain and disability in patients with KOA. Results of this trial will help to direct clinical practice and inform management guidelines.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05035810 . Registered on 5 September 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To identify the efficacy and safety of multiple doses of intravenous tranexamic acid (IV‐TXA) following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with a tourniquet. Methods This is a single‐blind randomized controlled study that recruited osteoarthritis patients who had undergone primary unilateral TKA from May 2019 to May 2020 at our medical center. A total of 300 patients were randomly divided into three groups to receive: one dose (1 g) of IV‐TXA before skin incision combined with one dose (1.5 g) of intra‐articular tranexamic acid（IA‐TXA) followed by a single dose of IV‐TXA (1 g) for 3 h (group A); two doses of IV‐TXA (1 g) for 3 and 6 h (group B); or three doses of IV‐TXA (1 g) for 3, 6, and 12 h (group C) postoperatively. TKA with a tourniquet was performed by the same surgical team. The primary outcomes were total blood cell loss (TBL), hidden blood loss (HBL), maximum hemoglobin (Hb) drop, and transfusion rate. Secondary outcomes were levels of C‐reactive protein (CRP) and D‐dimer, and the incidence of postoperative complications. One‐way analysis of variance, subgroup analysis, and multivariate correlation analysis were used to calculate the differences among the three groups. Results The study included 56 male and 244 female patients aged 60–80 years. The mean TBL, the mean HBL, and the maximum Hb drop in group C (471.2 ± 190.6 mL, 428.4 ± 190.3 mL, and 21.2 ± 3.8 g/L, respectively) were significantly lower than those in groups B (563.4 ± 224.6 mL, P = 0.030; 519.9 ± 226.4 mL, P = 0.033; and 23.2 ± 4.1 g/L, P = 0.001, respectively), and A (651.6 ± 254.1 mL, P 0.05). In addition, there were positive correlations between the HBL and the tourniquet inflation time (r = 0.844, P

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To investigate the effects of electrical dry needling (DN) plus corticosteroid injection (CSI) on pain, physical function, and global change in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee (KOA). A prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Pain treatment clinic. Sixty patients with KOA were randomly assigned to the electrical dry needling plus corticosteroid injection (electrical-DN+CSI) group or CSI group. The CSI group received glucocorticoid injection only once during the trial, and the electrical-DN+CSI group received glucocorticoid injection combined with 4 sessions of electrical-DN. The primary outcome was the numerical rating scale at 3 months. The secondary outcomes were the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, the time to complete the Timed Up and Go test, and the score of the global rating of change scale at 3 months. A generalized linear mixed-effects model was used to analyze the repeated measurement data. Baseline characteristics and measurements were similar in the 2 groups. The group by time interaction effect was significant for all variables (P <.05). The electrical-DN+CSI group obtained a more significant reduction in pain intensity and more significant improvement in dysfunction than the CSI group at 3 months (P <.05). The median global rating of change score for the CSI group was +3 (somewhat better), and that for the electrical-DN+CSI group was +4 (moderately better). Electrical-DN therapy at myofascial trigger points combined with CSI is more effective at alleviating pain, improving dysfunction, and creating global change than CSI alone for patients with KOA. Electrical-DN may be an essential part of treatment for KOA rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To observe the effect of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells on knee osteoarthritis rats and to explore the possible mechanisms. Methods Forty SD rats were randomly divided into normal control group（Control, saline 0.3 mL, once a week for 4 times）, knee osteoarthritis group（KOA, saline 0.3 mL, once a week for 4 times）, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells group（BMSCs, 0.3 mL, once a week for 4 times）, 10 rats in each group, and the remaining 10 rats were used for the isolation of bone marrow MSCs. After 4 weeks, the joint index（AI） scores of rats were performed; the pathological changes of cartilage tissue were observed by HE staining; immunohistochemistry was performed to detect the expression of Col II, IL-6, MMP-3 and MMP-13 in cartilage tissues; the content of IL-6, TNF-α, MMP-3 and MMP-13 in serum was detected by ELISA method; and the expression of Col II, Col I, TNF-α, IL-6, MMP-13, KDM6 A, SOX9 and Aggrecan mRNA in cartilage tissue was detected by qRT-PCR; Western blot to detect KDM6 A, SOX9, Aggrecan protein expression in cartilage tissue. Results Compared with the control group, AI score, serum IL-6, TNF-α, MMP-3, MMP-13 content, and cartilage tissue IL-6, MMP-3, MMP-13 expression were significantly higher in the KOA group rats（P<0.05）; Col II, KDM6 A, Aggrecan, SOX9 mRNA and protein expression significantly decreased（P<0.05）. Compared with the KOA group, the BMSCs group significantly decreased AI score, significantly decreased serum IL-6, TNF-α, MMP-3, MMP-13 levels, and IL-6 mRNA expression in cartilage tissue（P<0.05）, and significantly increased KDM6 A, Aggrecan mRNA and protein expression in cartilage tissue（P<0.05）. Conclusion Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells significantly improved the pathological damage of knee osteoarthritis and may exert therapeutic effects on knee osteoarthritis rats by regulating the KDM6 A/SOX9 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Current evidence based research data lead to reassessment of traditional approaches for treatment of patients with bone and joint disorders especially knee osteoarthritis (OA). The purpose of the study was to review randomized clinical trials (RCT) and meta-analyses of RCT as well as recent guidelines of professional societies for application of arthroscopic lavage, debridement and meniscectomy in knee OA. Materials and Methods. Databases PubMed, e-LIBRARY, EMBASE (Ovid), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched for the period from 2000 till 2019. From 138 heats irrelevant and poor quality studies were excluded. In total there were 1614 patients aged 48,9–62,8 in RCT and 20 770 patients aged 42–62,4 in meta-analyses of RCT. Results. Both arthroscopic lavage and debridement do not lead to significant pain relief as well as functional improvement in long term therefore are not recommended. Nonsurgical treatment should be the first line strategy in patients with early and moderate knee OA even with degenerative meniscal tears irrespective of mechanical symptoms like painful locking, catching or sudden giving way. Arthroscopy might be performed only if complex non-surgical treatment including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, structured exercises program and intra-articular injections failed after 3 months in patients without ‘bone on bone’ cartilage erosions and frontal malalignment or if the knee is mechanically locked due to bucked handle type meniscus tear or loose body. Conclusion. Evidence based medicine approach let us to conclude that arthroscopy in knee OA is non-efficient and rarely indicated therefore if proper non-surgical treatment is failed around the knee osteotomies and partial or total arthroplasty should be considered.

Background. Arthrosis of the knee joint is one of the most common diseases in elderly patients with the varus deformity. One of the treatment methods is corrective osteotomy. Aims: optimization of the diagnosis of deformities in patients with gonarthrosis, improvement of the technique of operation and postoperative control of the main reference lines and angles, assessment of the correction results, analysis of complications. Methods. A retrospective clinical study was conducted. 39 patients were observed, in whom 78 operations were performed on both legs simultaneously. In all the cases, tibia osteotomies and osteosynthesis with the Ilizarov apparatus were used. All the patients underwent an X-ray study of the legs along the entire length with the identification of the main reference lines and angles. Results. In all the cases, it was possible to normalize the position of the mechanical axis and the angle of orientation of the knee joint. After the surgery, the wounds were not sutured to prevent compartment syndrome. The correction was performed in a single-stage manner in elderly patients, gradually in young patients. The period of fixation with the Ilizarov apparatus was 16.6 3.1 weeks. Conclusions. The Ilizarov method has significant advantages: low invasiveness, stable fixation, absence of foreign bodies to the end of treatment. This allows us to recommend it for a wider use in patients with gonarthrosis and varus deformity.

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of double level osteotomy (DLO), a combination of a lateral closed distal femoral osteotomy (LCWDFO) and medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO), on patellar height and patellofemoral alignment as compared to those of isolated MOWHTO. Methods: Twenty-six consecutive knees in 26 patients who underwent DLO (DLO group) constituted the study population. For comparative purpose, a control cohort (N: 26) matched for age, sex, and body mass index with the study group were selected from the patients who underwent isolated MOWHTO with an opening gap of more than 10 mm during the same period (MOWHTO group). Patellar height and patellofemoral alignment were assessed on radiographs preoperatively and at 2 years after surgery. For the patellar height, following parameters were measured on a lateral radiograph: Modified Insall-Salvati Index (mISI), modified Caton–Deschamps Index (mCDI), and modified Blackburne-Peel Index (mBPI). In the assessment of patellofemoral alignment, lateral patellar tilt (LPT) and lateral patellar shift (LPS) were measured on a skyline view. The measured values were statistically compared using the Student’s t-test. Results: In the DLO group, the patellar height measured by mCDI and mPBPI significantly decreased after surgery. As regards the patellofemoral alignment, LPT significantly decreased with no significant postoperative change detected for LPS. When the amounts of postoperative changes in radiological indices were compared between the DLO and isolated MOWHTO groups, no significant differences were detected for all parameters. Conclusion: DLO induced reduction in patellar height and decreased lateral patellar tilt. Those changes in patellar position and orientation were similarly observed in isolated MOWHTO knees. Although DLO is specifically indicated for knees with severe varus deformity, the two surgical options for correction of varus knee deformity exerted similar influences on patellofemoral biomechanics.

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the postoperative change in patellar position after medial closed distal femoral osteotomy (DFO) performed for valgus osteoarthritic knees. Methods The study included 21 consecutive knees in 20 patients undergoing DFO. A minimum of 2-year follow-up data was obtained for all subjects with a mean follow-up period of 42 months (range 31–59 months). The patellar position was evaluated on plain radiographs preoperatively, 1-year postoperatively, and 2-year postoperatively. For patellar height, the modified Insall–Salvati Index (mISI), modified Caton–Deschamps Index (mCDI) and modified Blackburne–Peel Index (mBPI) were measured on the standing lateral radiographs. Patellofemoral alignment on the axial plane was assessed on skyline views with 30° flexion based on the measurements for lateral patellar tilt (LPT) and lateral patellar shift (LPS). Measured values at pre- and postoperative phases were statistically compared using a two-way analysis of variance. Results All indices including mISI, mCDI, mBPI, LPT and LPS showed no statistically significant postoperative changes. Conclusion Medial closed-wedge DFO performed for valgus osteoarthritic knees did not significantly influence patellofemoral alignment either on the sagittal or axial plane. Therefore, to highlight the clinical relevance of our findings, medial closed-wedge DFO for the valgus knee does not adversely affect the patellofemoral joint. Level of evidence Level IV, case series.

The first peak of the external knee abduction moment (KAM) is often used as a surrogate measure of the medial compartment loading and has been correlated with pain and progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA). As a result, reducing the KAM is often the target of conservative interventions. OA should be considered as a "Whole Person" disease, including ecological psychosocial aspects. Scientists have developed gait alteration strategies to reduce the KAM. They attempted to force into a new position any particular part without reference to the pattern of the whole. We propose an alternative approach: in the vicinity of a special configuration of the knee, some or all of the components of the knee become overloaded. This study has shown that when six lines $ 1 ′ , $ 2 ′ , $ 3 ′ , $ 4 ′ , $ 5 ′ , $ 6 ′ are so situated that forces acting along them equilibrate when applied to one degree of freedom, 1 ° F knee, a certain determinant vanishes. We wish to define the six lines as the knee complex in involution by virtue of some constraint upon the knee. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent literature suggests that sarcopenia, often represented by low lower limbs muscle mass and strength, can be considered a potential risk factor for knee osteoarthritis (OA), but the available literature is still limited. We therefore aimed to investigate whether sarcopenia is associated with a higher risk of radiographic (ROA) and symptomatic knee OA (SxOA) in a large cohort of North American people in the context of the OA initiative. Sarcopenia at baseline was diagnosed in case of low skeletal muscle mass (i.e., lower skeletal mass index) and poor performance in the chair stands test. The outcomes of interest for this study included ROA (radiographical osteoarthritis) if a knee developed a Kellgren and Lawrence (KL) grade ≥2 at follow-up, and SxOA (symptomatic osteoarthritis) defined as new onset of a combination of painful knee OA. Altogether, 2,492 older participants (mean age: 68.4 years, 61.4% females) were included. At baseline, sarcopenia was present in 6.1% of the population. No significant difference in ROA prevalence was observed between those with and without sarcopenia (p=0.76), whilst people with sarcopenia reported a significant higher prevalence of SxOA (p<0.0001). Using a logistic regression analysis, adjusting for potential confounders at baseline and the diagnosis of sarcopenia during follow-up, sarcopenia was associated with a higher incidence of knee SxOA (odds ratio, OR=2.29; 95%CI [confidence interval]: 1.42-3.71; p=0.001), but not knee ROA (OR=1.48; 95%CI: 0.53-4.10; p=0.45). In conclusion, sarcopenia could be associated with a higher risk of negative knee OA outcomes, in particular symptomatic forms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To elucidate the possible role of MRI-detected osteophytes as a predictive imaging biomarker for knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Design: Subjects (n ​= ​303) were selected according to the following inclusion criteria from the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI) data set: (1) ​

Recent literature suggests that sarcopenia, often represented by low lower limbs muscle mass and strength, can be considered a potential risk factor for knee osteoarthritis (OA), but the available literature is still limited. We therefore aimed to investigate whether sarcopenia is associated with a higher risk of radiographic (ROA) and symptomatic knee OA (SxOA) in a large cohort of North American people in the context of the OA initiative. Sarcopenia at baseline was diagnosed in case of low skeletal muscle mass (i.e., lower skeletal mass index) and poor performance in the chair stands test. The outcomes of interest for this study included ROA (radiographical osteoarthritis) if a knee developed a Kellgren and Lawrence (KL) grade ≥2 at follow-up, and SxOA (symptomatic osteoarthritis) defined as new onset of a combination of painful knee OA. Altogether, 2,492 older participants (mean age: 68.4 years, 61.4% females) were included. At baseline, sarcopenia was present in 6.1% of the population. No significant difference in ROA prevalence was observed between those with and without sarcopenia (p=0.76), whilst people with sarcopenia reported a significant higher prevalence of SxOA (p

Goals: Periarticular fat pads of the human knee are relatively well studied structures, but the majority of the reviewed articles focus on fat pads of the anterior part of the knee. Therefore, the goal of this scoping systematic review is to summarize and disseminate current knowledge about the only fat pad in the posterior part of the knee – the pericruciate fat pad (PCFP). Methods: In November 2020 two independent researchers, in order to gather the maximally broad set of articles pertaining to the studied topic, searched the following databases: PubMed, Embase, Karger, Scopus, using terms: pericruciate fat pad, PCL fat pad, posterior cruciate ligament fat pad. The article inclusion criteria was that it contained any scientific or clinical data about the PCFP, regardless of the type of article (original study, case report, review), and the year of its publication. Article exclusion criteria were that the study was not related to the PCFP and the article was written in any other language than English. In order to write each section of this review the included studies were then sorted into subtopics related to the PCFP. Main findings: During the initial search of medical databases only eight articles mentioning the PCFP were identified, and only four directly focused on the PCFP. PCFP is located in the intercondylar fossa, filling the space between cruciates near their femoral attachment sites, surrounding the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and directly contacting the posterior capsule of the knee joint. The PCFP is composed of fatty tissue, covered by a thin synovial layer. It can be visualized on a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and during arthroscopy. Injuries of the PCFP may occur, resulting in nonspecific posterior knee pain. It has been proposed that alterations of the PCFP signal in MRI were a secondary sign of acute anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, and an early indicator of osteoarthritis of the knee joint. While functions of the PCFP are not yet well studied, the PCFP is hypothesized to be a container of reparative stem cells. In agreement with this hypothesis, „the PCL fat pad transfer technique” was described as a promising treatment to enhance synovialization and revascularization of the ACL, after its repair or reconstruction. Conclusions: Anatomy and imaging of PCFP is relatively well studied, however, we still need additional studies concerning its histology, functions, injuries, and a role in osteoarthritis. While there are theoretical promising benefits of using PCFP in ACL repair or reconstruction, high level-of-evidence research is needed to formulate any stronger opinions on the topic.

Kinematic-alignment total knee arthroplasty (KA-TKA) aims to restore natural limb alignment and joint line obliquity, thereby improving patient satisfaction. Restricted KA-TKA (rKA-TKA) addresses abnormal knee anatomies and seeks to replicate natural anatomical structures within safe alignment boundaries. This study introduces a novel device and technique that enables rKA-TKA without computer-assisted surgery (CAS). The new device allows for precise cartilage thickness measurement and adjustment of osteotomy angles, facilitating accurate alignment. A heel-lift technique for tibial osteotomy is presented, offering a reproducible method for determining the osteotomy volume and angle. These innovations make KA and rKA-TKA feasible in any surgical setting, avoiding the high costs and limited availability associated with CAS., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Sakakibara et al.)

This study aimed to investigate preoperative factors associated with non-home discharges from acute care hospitals in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) due to osteoarthritis. It was a scoping review focused on patients who received their first unilateral TKA for osteoarthritis. The research targeted observational studies that examined the destinations of patients post-surgery based on preoperative factors, with a literature search conducted in April 2023. Out of 3,255 identified papers, 28 met the eligibility criteria. A total of 26 preoperative factors were identified as potentially related to discharge destinations, including age, gender, comorbidities, and obesity. By selecting an appropriate discharge destination based on preoperative factors, there may be potential for more efficient use of medical resources. Future studies should consider preoperative factors in the context of national healthcare systems and lengths of hospital stay., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Nasu et al.)

Distal femoral fractures are commonly treated with osteosynthesis. However, in older patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, acute primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) may be performed to treat these fractures. Notably, no studies have documented the use of osteosynthesis in combination with distal femoral osteotomy (DFO) for treating distal femoral fractures in patients with knee osteoarthritis. This report presents the case of a 66-year-old woman with lateral compartment osteoarthritis accompanied by severe valgus knee deformity who underwent osteosynthesis for a distal femoral fracture combined with medial closing-wedge distal femoral osteotomy (MCWDFO) to correct the knee valgus deformity. She experienced a distal femoral fracture (AO/OTA 33B1.1) of the right knee because of a fall. Before the injury, she exhibited a limp due to severe knee pain with some limitations in knee flexion. Non-weight-bearing radiographs of the entire lower extremity suggested a percentage mechanical axis (%MA) of 115%, indicating severe valgus deformity. On day nine after the injury, we performed osteosynthesis for the distal femoral fracture and conducted an MCWDFO to correct the right knee valgus deformity. After MCWDFO, the %MA was corrected to 70%. Partial weight-bearing was initiated three weeks postoperatively and progressed to full weight-bearing at six weeks. To facilitate bone healing, low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) was applied for three months after surgery. Bone union was successfully achieved by month five. Some medial knee pain persisted for six months after surgery; nonetheless, the patient could walk without a limp. We considered that the integration of MCWDFO with osteosynthesis could provide a treatment option for patients with distal femoral fractures and lateral compartment osteoarthritis., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Fujita et al.)

Abstract Background In the progression of osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, a correlation between meniscal posterior segment injuries and medial meniscal extrusion has been reported, but there have been few reports on the relationship with the meniscal shape. The purpose of this study was to clarify the features of the meniscal shape involved in the progression of knee OA. Methods Data were obtained from the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI) database. We defined two sets of subjects. One set included 455 knees of subjects whose OA grade on the Kellgren Lawrence (KL) scale progressed in 24 months from baseline and the other set consisted of 455 knees with no progression. The OA progressed subjects were divided to three groups: the “OA change group”, KL0 and KL1 knees that progressed to KL2 and KL3; the “mild change group”, KL2 knees that progressed to KL3; and the “severe change group”, KL2 and KL3 knees that progressed to KL4. The no progression set was divided into three groups whose OA grade remained unchanged. We used magnetic resonance imaging data and manually measured seven items (longitudinal diameter [LD], anterior wedge thickness, anterior wedge width, posterior wedge width, posterior wedge thickness, anterior wedge angle, posterior wedge angle) from the sagittal slice and the extrusion from the coronal slice. These measurements were compared between knees with and without OA progression. Results In the “OA change group” and “mild change group”, the anterior and posterior wedge widths and the extrusion were significantly larger, but the anterior and the posterior wedge angles were significantly smaller. In the “severe change group,” the LD and the extrusion were significantly larger. In each group, there was no uniform tendency for the correlation coefficient of the parameters evaluated. Conclusions Our findings suggested (1) a larger meniscal LD at the baseline predicted progression of knee OA after 24 months and (2) a larger meniscal width and smaller meniscal angle predicted progression of knee OA after 24 months.

Abstract Background Evaluation of knee and lower limb function alone is not sufficient to assess gait. For accurate assessment of gait abnormality, gait oscillation should also be measured. The goal of this analysis was to assess the influence of the knee joint on gait oscillation during gait and stair-stepping in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Methods In 33 patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis and 33 healthy adults as the control group, we examined acceleration (anterior and lateral directions) and gait barycentric factors (single-support phase and ratio of center of gravity maximum values) during gait and stair-stepping. Results Acceleration in the anterior direction in the sacral region was greater in healthy adults than in osteoarthritis (OA) patients during gait and stair-down. Acceleration in the anterior direction in the dorsal vertebral region was greater in OA patients than in healthy adults during (up and down) stair-stepping. Acceleration in the lateral direction in the sacral region was greater in healthy adults than in OA patients during stair-up. Acceleration in the lateral direction in the dorsal vertebral region was greater in OA patients than in healthy adults during stair-stepping. The single-support phase was close to 1 for gait and stair-stepping in healthy adults and OA patients. The single-support time was largely the same for gait and stair-stepping in healthy adults. On the other hand, the single-support time was longer for stair-stepping than for gait in OA patients. The ratio of the center of gravity maximum values was greater for the sacral region than for the dorsal vertebral region. There was a significant difference in the stair-stepping ratio of the center of gravity maximum values between healthy adults and OA patients for the sacral region. Conclusion We considered that knee OA influenced acceleration in the anterior and lateral direction in the dorsal vertebral and the ratio of the center of gravity maximum values on gait oscillation.

Abstract Background Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a concentrate of autologous blood growth factors which has been shown to provide some symptomatic relief in early osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. The objective of this study was to test the feasibility and efficacy potential of platelet rich plasma (PRP) in primary care. Methods Feasibility study to assess safety of the intervention procedures and assess primary and secondary outcome measures. Consecutive patients presenting with symptomatic knee OA were recruited in a primary care setting in Ireland. All participants received three injections of PRP 4 weeks apart. The following self-reported clinical outcomes were evaluated before and after therapy (4 months): Pain and disability (ICOAP questionnaire); health utility (EUROQol); adverse events; patient satisfaction and goal-orientated outcomes. Results Seventeen potential patients were identified of whom 14 were eligible to participate. Twelve consented and completed the intervention and all outcome measures. There were no losses to follow-up. One patient reported pain and stiffness for 2 days after the first injection but did complete the study. No growth was detected from nine consecutive samples sent for microbiology analysis. Changes in constant, intermittent and total pain scores were reported; pain fully resolved in two patients. In addition, health utility, patient satisfaction and goal-orientated outcomes also demonstrated improvement. Conclusions Platelet-rich plasma therapy is a simple and minimally invasive intervention which is feasible to deliver in primary care to treat osteoarthritis of the knee joint. Well-designed randomised controlled trials are needed to measure outcomes, durability of effect and cost effectiveness.

Abstract Background The meniscus plays an important role in the integrity of the knee joint. Therefore, meniscus tissue preserving techniques for the therapy of meniscus injuries seem to be reasonable. One of the important questions is whether meniscal repair can prevent the knee joint from early onset of osteoarthritis. Methods According to the review of the current literature, the principles of a successful meniscal repair are explained and the functional outcome and its impact on the prevention of osteoarthritis are analyzed in this article. Results Current data show a positive impact of a successful meniscus repair on the functional outcome in long-term. By this a protective effect on the development of osteoarthritis via the repair of meniscus lesions to restore the meniscus integrity can be confirmed. However, higher rates of re-operations in context to meniscus suturing have to be considered. Conclusion Due to the improved functional outcomes as well as preventive effect on the development of osteoarthritis within the knee joint in long-term, it is of importance to preserve as much meniscus tissue as possible in meniscus therapy. Patients previously have to be informed about the higher revision rate in context to meniscus suturing.