Intra-Articular Injection of Amniotic Membrane Particulate may reduce Osteoarthritis pain

Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) was assessed on a 7-point scale, and Global Perceived Improvement (GPI), expressed as percent improvement relative to baseline, was used to further quantify the degree of symptomatic change. Clinically important response to treatment was assessed at 12 months using simplified OMERACT–OARSI responder criteria.

The following findings were noted-

a. Prior to injection, patient-rated pain was 6.6 ± 1.5 out of 10 (median: 7, range: 3– 10) despite prior treatment with oral/topical NSAIDs (62%) and intra-articular injection(s) of corticosteroids (57%) and/or hyaluronic acid (48%).

b. Twelve months following AM/UC injection, 31 patients (74%) reported significant clinical improvement via PGIC, and the OMERACT–OARSI treatment response rate was 81% (34/42).

c. GPI of pain and function was 62 ± 24%, 69 ± 27%, 69 ± 27%, and 64 ± 31% at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively.

d. Symptomatic improvement was maintained for an average duration of 12.1 ± 4.5 months (median: 12, range: 3– 22).

e. One patient developed swelling in the knee within 36 hours of injection.

f. No other adverse events or complications were reported.

Therefore, it was concluded that "Intra-articular injection of AM/UC particulate may be effective in alleviating pain and improving function in patients with moderate to severe knee OA, with the potential to delay total knee replacement for up to 12 months."