Extrait

Background and study aims Osteoarthritis is a condition that causes joints to become painful and stiff. In the treatment of osteoarthritis, it is now agreed that surgical procedures should be at least delayed, and even avoided as far as possible. Hyaluronic acid is found in the synovial fluid in joints and acts as both a lubricant and shock absorber. Hyaluronic acid can be injected into the joint (intra-articular injections) to improve joint lubrication. Structovial CS is the only one of the currently available solutions to treat knee osteoarthritis that combines chondroitin sulphate and hyaluronic acid (HA/CS). Chondroitin sulfate is a chemical that is normally found in cartilage around joints in the body. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of three weekly intra-articular injections of HA/CS in knees affected by osteoarthritis. Who can participate? Patients aged between 45 and 80 with osteoarthritis of the knee What does the study involve? All participants receive three intra-articular injections of HA/CS over a 3-week period. Pain and knee function are assessed over a period of 12 weeks. What are the possible benefits and risks of participating? HA/CS may improve participants’ health and physical function. There are no known risks to participants. Where is the study run from? The study takes place at various rheumatological clinics at hospitals and at private centres in France and Belgium When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for? March to October 2008 Who is funding the study? Pierre Fabre Research Institute (France) Who is the main contact? Prof. Thierry Appelboom

Critère d'inclusion

• Osteoarthritis of the knee

Liens

• ictrp
• isrctn