Simple solution for post-op OA risk

Osteoarthritis

4 Feb 2015

Adding sugar to the saline solution used to wash out joints during orthopaedic surgery could prevent the development of OA at a later date, researchers say.

In a rat study the scientists from Edinburgh found that adding sugar raised the osmotic pressure of the saline, which protected cartilage cells from injury during surgery.

Their research was funded by Arthritis Research UK and published in the journal Osteoarthritis and Cartilage.

Dr Andrew Hall, principal investigator said, “Our findings could have major implications for tens of thousands of people who undergo arthroscopic surgery, such as footballers or other sportspeople who’ve damaged their cartilage. Or in fact anyone who’s had exploratory surgery for a sore or painful knee.

“There is a worry that all these people are at risk of developing osteoarthritis from their surgery. But if surgeons can be persuaded to use this chondroprotective solution as standard that risk could be substantially reduced. It’s a cheap, simple solution that can protect the cartilage in the joint during arthroscopy and surgery.”

Dr Stephen Simpson, director of research at Arthritis Research UK commented:” “It’s extraordinary that something as simple as a sugar solution can have such a beneficial, protective effect on the joints during surgery and can actually help repair cartilage damage. It seems a simple yet potentially valuable step that surgeons around the country could be persuaded to include in their procedures.”

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