Intra-Articular Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Injections Improve Pain and Function in Knee Osteoarthritis

Intra-Articular Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Injections Improve Pain and Function in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Multicenter Retrospective Study.

This study is designed to evaluate the effects of intra-articular injections of polyacrylamide hydrogel (Arthrosamid®) in patients with knee osteoarthritis. A total of 387 patients (593 knees) were treated across three medical centers in Türkiye.

The purpose of the study is to determine whether this injection can reduce knee pain and improve physical function in everyday life. Pain is being measured using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and function is being assessed with the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 40 years
• Radiographic diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence grade 2-4)
• Received intra-articular 2.5% polyacrylamide hydrogel injection

Exclusion Criteria:

• Prior knee surgery before PAAG injection
• Malignancy, local infection, or septic arthritis
• Inflammatory joint disease (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
• Pregnancy
• Avascular necrosis
• Advanced varus or valgus knee deformity