Ultrasound Guided
Arthrosamid Injections

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A syringe with the label 'Arthrosamid' next to a red and black knee implant, advertising a knee pain relief treatment by Contura Orthopaedics.
A scientific brochure page about osteoarthritis treatment options and introducing intra-articular Polyacrylamide Hydrogel (iPAAG). It features a title, subtitle, a paragraph of informational text, a chart illustrating disease progression, and images of the iPAAG product packaging.

Arthrosamid is an injectable treatment developed to ease the symptoms of osteoarthritis, a condition marked by the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage. It is intended for patients with mild to severe knee arthritis, including advanced “bone-on-bone” cases, where pain, stiffness, and limited movement are common. Its formulation and mechanism make it especially effective for use in the knee joint, where osteoarthritis often has a major impact.

This treatment is made from a synthetic, biocompatible hydrogel designed to replicate the characteristics of healthy joint fluid. It consists of polyacrylamide particles suspended in a saline solution. Once injected into the joint, Arthrosamid helps restore lost synovial fluid, decreases friction between joint surfaces, and provides cushioning to absorb impact during movement.

Arthrosamid has shown strong results in reducing joint pain and enhancing function. Clinical research reports meaningful decreases in pain levels, improved mobility, and better overall quality of life for patients receiving the injections. Additionally, it has demonstrated a good safety profile, with minimal side effects or complications reported.

The injection is performed using an ultrasound-guided technique, which allows for precise placement of the hydrogel within the knee joint and helps optimise treatment outcomes.

What Is Arthrosamid?

Arthrosamid® is an innovative treatment for knee osteoarthritis that serves as an alternative to existing therapies. It is based on a non-biodegradable hydrogel composed of 2.5% cross-linked polyacrylamide and 97.5% water. A single injection into the knee provides cushioning and pain relief, offering long-lasting and safe symptom control.

How Does It Work?

Arthrosamid® is an intra-articular polyacrylamide hydrogel injection used to treat knee osteoarthritis symptoms. After being injected into the joint cavity, it enhances the viscosity of the synovial fluid, improving lubrication and shock absorption. It also integrates with the synovial lining of the joint capsule, creating a cushioning effect.

The Benefits of Arthrosamid

By cushioning the joint, Arthrosamid® can help reduce pain, ease stiffness, and improve mobility. It has been shown to be safe and provides long-term pain relief, contributing to a better quality of life.

What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis (arthritis that affects the knee bones/joints) is a long-term condition that worsens over time, causing pain and disability. It is most common in the knee joint, where it wears away the shock-absorbing cartilage and causes the bones to rub together. As a result the joint becomes stiff, swollen and painful.

No one knows exactly what causes knee osteoarthritis. There is no permanent cure and, until now, treatments have focused on managing the symptoms. They include:

  • EXERCISE

  • WEIGHT LOSS

  • PAIN RELIEF MEDICATION

  • VISCOSUPPLEMENT INJECTIONS

  • BRACES

  • PHYSIO

When these therapies fail total knee replacement surgery is often the only option. Things are about to change.

Infographic explaining Arthrosamid. A hydrogel for joint pain relief, with steps illustrating its injection process into a knee joint, including images of a syringe and a knee, and text detailing the procedure

Arthrosamid Procedure

Before the injection, patients are typically prescribed an antibiotic to reduce the risk of infection.

On the day of treatment:

  1. The patient lies comfortably on an examination table, and the knee is exposed and cleaned with an antiseptic solution.

  2. An ultrasound device is used to view the knee joint in real time, with gel applied to the skin to improve image clarity.

  3. Using these images, the clinician identifies the best point for needle insertion. A local anaesthetic may be given to minimise discomfort.

  4. The needle is then guided into the joint space, and the Arthrosamid solution is carefully injected, allowing it to spread evenly.

  5. After the procedure, patients are advised to rest and avoid strenuous activity for a short time. Pain relief or anti-inflammatory medication may be recommended if needed.

Summary of a study on intra-articular polyacrylamide hydrogel, Arthrosamid injections for knee osteoarthritis, including efficacy, safety, patient responses, and key data charts.

Contraindications

Arthrosamid® should not be used in certain situations, including:

  • If there is an active skin condition or infection near the injection site

  • If the joint is infected or severely inflamed

  • If a biodegradable joint injection (such as hyaluronic acid) is still present and has not yet been fully absorbed

  • If the patient has previously received another non-absorbable injectable or implant

  • If the patient has had knee replacement surgery or has foreign material in the joint

  • If knee arthroscopy has been performed within the past six months

  • In patients with haemophilia or those undergoing uncontrolled anticoagulant therapy

Documenting patient Ron through his Athrosamid journey, from having the procedure to 4 months later. Ron experienced a 90% improvement from the injection.

Reviews

  • "After my consultation with Jon l felt confident enough to go ahead with my treatment on my knee for arthritis. Having a fairly new injection of arthrosamid l was fairly ambivalent about the outcome but 9 months on it was well worth the money and the outcome. I have had no pain at all in my knee and would totally recommend this treatment at this clinic."

    Jacqui

  • "Suffering with the constant pain and limited mobility, especially as I’m a carpenter, I took the plunge 12 weeks ago and I’m so glad I did. I can now walk pain free… stairs and scafffold ladders no problem…. My range of motion and stiffness are massively improved… My mental health has improved as a result so a massive thank you to Jon."

    Mike

PERSONALISED INJECTION THERAPY

Reduce your symptoms. Move pain-free. Let our team of experts guide you back to health.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Arthrosamid® is a cutting-edge injection treatment for all severities of knee osteoarthritis (OA) that uses a non-biodegradable hydrogel to provide long-term cushioning inside the joint. Once injected, the gel integrates into the synovial lining, improving lubrication, reducing irritation, and helping relieve persistent knee pain.

  • Arthrosamid is designed for individuals with:

    • All severities of knee osteoarthritis (OA)

    • Ongoing knee pain and stiffness

    • Reduced mobility that affects daily function or exercise

    It is often chosen when other conservative treatments like physiotherapy, medication or steroid injections have not provided lasting improvement.

  • The hydrogel becomes part of the joint lining and creates a long-term cushioning effect, reducing friction and inflammation. Unlike steroid injections, which temporarily reduce inflammation, Arthrosamid works by physically improving the joint environment to support more comfortable movement.

  • Yes, ultrasound guidance is used for every Arthrosamid procedure to ensure precise placement and maximise effectiveness.

  • Clinical studies show that a single Arthrosamid injection may provide pain relief for up to two years or longer. This makes it one of the longest-lasting non-surgical options available for knee osteoarthritis.

  • Arthrosamid does not provide instant relief - improvements generally develop gradually as the hydrogel integrates into the knee joint. Most patients begin to notice changes anytime between 1 and 6 months after treatment, with results continuing to progress over time as inflammation reduces and cushioning increases.

  • Current clinical data shows strong success outcomes:

    • Approximately 80% of patients under 70 experience a positive response

    • Around 60% of patients over 70 achieve meaningful improvement

    Effectiveness varies depending on age, severity of osteoarthritis, and individual health factors. Your clinician will assess suitability during consultation.

  • You may benefit from Arthrosamid if you:

    • Suffer from knee osteoarthritis that limits mobility

    • Have tried other treatments without success

    • Want to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery

    • Prefer a long-lasting, non-steroid solution

  • See Table 1 below.

  • Patients frequently report:

    • Reduced pain and stiffness

    • Better walking and functional movement

    • Increased participation in daily and leisure activities

    • Improved quality of life

  • Yes, Arthrosamid has been extensively studied and is considered safe. Mild swelling or discomfort after the procedure is normal and short-lived.

  • Arthrosamid may not be recommended if you:

    • Have an infection in or around the knee

    • Have inflammatory arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid)

    • Have medical conditions affecting wound healing

    A clinical consultation is required to assess suitability.

Resources

Arthrosamid Steroid Hyaluronic Acid
Up to 4 years reflief Weeks to months Months
Cushions & integrates into joint lining Reduces inflammation only Improves lubrication only
Single treatment May require repeats Usually a course
Non-degradable Temporary Temporary
All severities of OA Mild to Moderate OA Mild to Moderate OA

Table 1: Arthrosamid vs. Steroid vs. Hyaluronic Acid