Evaluation of the effectiveness of using a cross-linked sodium hyaluronate implant in the treatment of gonarthrosis

Relevance. Gonarthrosis is a progressive disease accompanied by constant joint pain and functional limitations significantly reducing the patients’ quality of life and leading to disability. Hyaluronic acid preparations play an important role in the treatment of this pathology. The range of hyaluronic acid preparations is quite wide: they differ in molecular structure, method of synthesis, injection volume, number of procedures, and combination with other active substances. Traditionally, most preparations contain a linear hyaluronic acid molecule. Currently, implants based on cross-linked hyaluronic acid are available on the pharmaceutical market. One of the most advanced processes is cross-linking with BDDE using the innovative patented Crosslinked Hyaluronic Acid Platform (CHAP) technology.

Objective. The aim of the study is to assess the effectiveness of cross-linked sodium hyaluronate hydrogel in gonarthrosis treatment.

Materials and methods. Twenty patients diagnosed with stage II gonarthrosis have been examined and treated. 2% cross-linked sodium hyaluronate preparation, 3 ml bionic crosslink, was administered to the patients intraarticularly. The patients' condition was assessed using generally accepted scales and questionnaires: before the treatment start, and in seven and in forty days after the drug administration.

Results. It has been established that cross-linked sodium hyaluronate does not provide a quick symptomatic effect, but significantly increases all the possible effects in 40 days after its administration. The decrease in pain compared to baseline values was 46%, and the dynamics of the WOMAC index was 36%. 40 days later, 93% of patients observed significant improvement. No complications associated with intra-articular administration of the drug have been revealed.

Conclusion. The results of the research indicate the long-term efficacy and safety of cross-linked sodium hyaluronate in the treatment of gonarthrosis.

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