Arthrosamid at The Rivers Hospital, Sawbridgeworth
Mr Dennis Kosuge is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and the first surgeon trained and approved to offer Arthrosamid® at The Rivers Hospital, Sawbridgeworth. This page explains what Arthrosamid is, how it works for knee osteoarthritis, what the treatment involves and who it may suit. Mr Kosuge offers Arthrosamid to suitable patients with knee osteoarthritis from across Hertfordshire and West Essex, including Bishop’s Stortford, Harlow and Epping.
What is Arthrosamid®?
Arthrosamid® is an innovative treatment designed for individuals suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee. Arthrosamid® is a non-biodegradable hydrogel. It works by cushioning your knee joint, relieving pain and improving your mobility. Mr Kosuge is the first surgeon to be trained and approved to provide Arthrosamid® treatment at Rivers Hospital.
What conditions can Arthrosamid® be used to treat?
Arthrosamid® is a treatment option for osteoarthritis in your knees. Osteoarthritis is a common condition where the protective cartilage in your joints breaks down, causing bone to rub against bone and leading to inflammation, pain, stiffness and difficulty moving the affected joint.
How does Arthrosamid® work for knee osteoarthritis?
Arthrosamid® is an intra-articular injection, meaning it is given directly into your knee joint. It is performed with ultrasound guidance. It contains a non-biodegradable hydrogel that thickens the lubricating fluid, known as synovial fluid, and integrates with the tissue in your knee joint. This lubricates and cushions your knee joint which helps to relieve knee pain and improve your mobility. The synthetic hydrogel is not broken down by your body which allows it to stay in your knee joint, relieving symptoms for longer than other similar treatments.
Are you a suitable patient for Arthrosamid® treatment:
Do you suffer from knee osteoarthritis?
Have you had treatments that have not provided pain relief?
Do you want to avoid the option of a knee replacement?
Are you looking for a long-term solution?
If the majority of your answers to the above questions are ‘yes’, Arthrosamid® may be a suitable option for you.
For more information:
Mr Kosuge’s Patient Information Booklet on Arthrosamid knee injections.. Please click on image to access the booklet.
What does having Arthrosamid® involve?
Arthrosamid® is given as a single injection into the knee joint, performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement. It is a day-case treatment that takes only a short time, and it does not require an operation, a general anaesthetic or a hospital stay. Most patients are able to go home shortly afterwards and return to light activities the same day. Mr Kosuge will explain exactly what to expect before, during and after the injection at your consultation.
Recovery and aftercare
Some patients notice mild swelling or discomfort in the knee for a few days after the injection, which usually settles with simple measures. Any improvement in pain and function tends to develop gradually over the weeks that follow, rather than immediately. Mr Kosuge will advise on activity and follow-up at the time of treatment.
How much does Arthrosamid® cost?
Arthrosamid® is available privately, as a self-pay or insured treatment. The cost depends on your individual circumstances, and Mr Kosuge’s team can provide a clear, written quote once your suitability has been confirmed at consultation. Many patients consider Arthrosamid® in the context of delaying or avoiding more invasive treatment.
More Frequently Asked Questions:
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Preliminary data shows sustained pain relief for many patients at two years following a single Arthrosamid injection. It is intended to be a durable, longer-lasting alternative to repeat steroid injections but like with any treatment, a less than desired response is a possibility.
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Arthrosamid is most suitable for patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis who wish to delay or avoid surgery, or those who have not responded adequately to steroid injections. Mr Kosuge will assess your suitability at your consultation.
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Steroid injections reduce inflammation and typically last weeks to months. Arthrosamid works mechanically — cushioning the joint — and is designed to last significantly longer. Mr Kosuge will discuss which is more appropriate for your specific knee at your consultation.
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Arthrosamid is currently available as a private treatment. Mr Kosuge offers it at The Rivers Hospital, Sawbridgeworth.
Make an appointment
If you would like to see if Arthrosamid® could be an option for you, Mr Kosuge would be delighted to make an assessment. Please feel free to book a consultation with him at Rivers Hospital, Sawbridgeworth:
Telephone - 01279602675.