“Next Generation Hydrogel” Knee arthritis is a common joint disorder that negatively affects the quality of daily life. In addition to traditional treatment methods, new generation hydrogel (polyacrylamide hydrogel) applications are becoming increasingly popular. So, what is hydrogel and what role does it play in the treatment of knee arthritis? In this article, you will find answers to all your questions about hydrogel treatment.
Contents
- How Does Hydrogel Treatment Work in Knee Calcification?
- Who is Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Application Suitable for?
- What is the Recovery Process After Hydrogel Injection?
- What are the Advantages of Hydrogel Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis?
- Is Hydrogel Treatment Safe? Are There Side Effects?
- What are the Differences Between Hydrogel and Knee Replacement?
- How Long Does the Effectiveness of Hydrogel Treatment Last?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion and Communication
How Does Hydrogel Treatment Work in Knee Calcification?
A hydrogel is a polymeric substance with a high water-holding capacity. Polyacrylamide hydrogel is the latest generation representative of these substances. When injected into the knee joint, the hydrogel creates a lubricating effect in the joint cavity and allows the cartilage surfaces to move freely. It also helps relieve pain by reducing pressure.
The hydrogel’s main function is to protect the joint surfaces by replacing the synovial fluid inside the joint. This slows the progression of cartilage damage and increases joint mobility. Especially in patients with knee arthritis, hydrogel treatment makes daily activities more comfortable.
Who is Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Application Suitable for?
Polyacrylamide hydrogel application is especially ideal for patients with early to mid-stage knee arthritis. If you want to relieve your pain and improve your quality of life without the need for surgery, this treatment may be suitable for you.
Hydrogel treatment may be considered in the following cases:
- Chronic pain and stiffness in the knee
- Persistence of pain despite medication
- No benefit from physical therapy methods
- High surgical risks or unwillingness to undergo surgery
However, hydrogel treatment may not be sufficient in patients with advanced arthritis and joint deformities. Therefore, it is important to consult an orthopedic specialist for the right treatment option.
What is the Recovery Process After Hydrogel Injection?
Hydrogel injection is a short procedure that is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately after the procedure. However, mild swelling and tenderness may occur at the injection site. These symptoms usually resolve spontaneously within a few days.
Things to consider during the healing process:
- Avoid heavy physical activity for the first 24 hours.
- Keep the injection site clean and dry.
- You can use painkillers recommended by your doctor.
- Keep your follow-up appointments.
From the first few weeks you will notice a reduction in pain and increased mobility. It may take a few weeks for the full effect to appear.
What are the Advantages of Hydrogel Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis?
Hydrogel therapy has many advantages on knee arthritis:
- It is a non-invasive method:It is applied without the need for surgical intervention.
- Provides Fast Recovery: Patients can return to their daily lives immediately after the procedure.
- Reduces Pain: Relieves pain by reducing friction within the joint.
- Increases Mobility: Increases mobility by reducing stiffness in the joint.
- It is safe: It has a low risk of side effects and rarely causes allergic reactions.
Thanks to these advantages, hydrogel therapy is an effective alternative for patients with knee arthritis.
Is Hydrogel Treatment Safe? Are There Side Effects?
Hydrogel therapy is a method that has been used safely for years. Since polyacrylamide hydrogel is a biocompatible material, it is well tolerated by the body. Side effects are usually minimal and of short duration.
Possible side effects include:
- Mild pain or swelling at the injection site
- Temporary sensitivity
- Risk of infection in rare cases
These side effects can usually be controlled with simple measures. For the safety of the treatment, it is important that the procedure is performed by an experienced orthopedist.
What are the Differences Between Hydrogel and Knee Replacement?
Hydrogel therapy and knee replacement are two different approaches to knee arthritis. The main differences between them are as follows:
- Invasiveness: Hydrogel injection is a minimally invasive procedure, while knee replacement is a surgical intervention.
- Recovery Time: Recovery after hydrogel is fast, while a longer rehabilitation period is required after prosthetic surgery.
- Risks: Hydrogel treatment has low risks, while prosthetic surgery has a higher risk of complications.
- Duration of Effectiveness: While the effect of hydrogel can last for several years, knee replacement is usually effective for 15-20 years.
The choice of treatment depends on the patient’s age, degree of arthritis and general health. You should discuss the most suitable option in detail with your doctor.
How Long Does the Effectiveness of Hydrogel Treatment Last?
Hidrojel tedavisinin etkinliği hastadan hastaya değişmekle birlikte, genellikle 1 ila 3 yıl arasında sürer. Bu süre zarfında ağrılarınız azalır ve hareket kabiliyetiniz artar. Etkinlik süresi sonunda, gerekirse tedavi tekrarlanabilmektedir.
Factors affecting the durability of treatment:
- Age and general health status of the patient
- Degree of calcification
- Physical activity level
- Compliance with doctor’s recommendations
The effectiveness of treatment can be increased with regular check-ups and appropriate lifestyle changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local anesthesia is applied during the hydrogel injection, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. There may be some mild discomfort after the procedure, but this is usually short-lived.
You can usually return to light exercises and sports within 1-2 weeks. However, it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations.
Yes, but the best results are usually seen in patients with early and mid-stage arthritis. Efficacy may be reduced in older patients and those with advanced arthritis.
Yes, hydrogel therapy can be used in joints other than the knee, such as the hip, shoulder and ankle.
Yan etkiler genellikle minimaldir ve enjeksiyon bölgesinde hafif ağrı, şişlik veya kızarıklık şeklinde görülmektedir. Nadir durumlarda enfeksiyon riski vardır.
While hydrogel treatment injects a substance that provides lubrication in the joint, PRP treatment uses growth factors derived from the patient’s own blood. The two treatments work through different mechanisms.
“Next Generation Hydrogel” Usually physical therapy is not needed, but in some cases your doctor may recommend exercises to improve mobility.
Hydrogel treatment is generally not recommended during pregnancy. You should consult your doctor about this.
“Next Generation Hydrogel” A healthy diet is beneficial for joint health. In particular, eating anti-inflammatory foods can support the healing process.
“Next Generation Hydrogel” Following your doctor’s recommendations, exercising regularly and maintaining your ideal weight can improve the effectiveness of treatment.
Conclusion and Communication
If knee osteoarthritis is reducing your quality of life, the new generation hydrogel treatment may be an effective solution for you. With this method, which provides both safe and fast recovery, you can relieve your pain and increase your mobility.
Note: This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute treatment advice. You should always make decisions about your health in consultation with your doctor.
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