Durolane injections are a non-surgical treatment option for individuals suffering from joint pain caused by osteoarthritis. Specifically designed to manage pain in the knee, hip, shoulder, and ankle joints, Durolane injections provide a temporary solution to discomfort when conventional therapies, such as exercise or medication, fail to alleviate symptoms.
Developed in the UK, this treatment uses hyaluronic acid to lubricate and cushion the affected joints, facilitating ease of movement and reducing pain.
The procedure itself is quick and straightforward, with patients often experiencing pain relief for up to 26 weeks following a single injection.
What Is Durolane?
Composition and Properties
Durolane is a purified form of hyaluronic acid, also known as sodium hyaluronate, which is naturally found in the lining of joints and acts as a shock absorber or lubricant. In arthritic joints, the levels of sodium hyaluronate are lower, reducing shock absorption and cushioning.
Durolane is synthetically created using fermented bacteria, ensuring a high level of purity in the product.
This unique single-injection hyaluronic acid therapy is carefully stabilized to resist degradation, which extends the time Durolane remains in the joint and contributes to its long-lasting effect. This longevity sets Durolane apart from other similar injections.
Mechanism of Action
Durolane is administered directly into the knee joint, and its ultrasound-guided injection ensures precision in delivering the treatment to the affected area. The hyaluronic acid works in the joint by:
- Providing lubrication and cushioning, enabling smoother joint movement.
- Maintaining joint elasticity, resulting in greater flexibility.
- Reducing inflammation within the joint, counteracting the symptoms of arthritis.
- Promoting tissue repair by stimulating natural healing processes.
Patients experience pain relief and improved joint function within as early as two weeks after treatment, with effects lasting up to 6 months or more. Durolane is an effective alternative to other injection therapies, such as steroids or multiple-injection sodium hyaluronate treatments.
Clinical Use of Durolane
Indications and Patient Suitability
Durolane is a non-animal derived hyaluronic acid commonly used in the UK for the symptomatic treatment of mild to moderate osteoarthritis in indicated synovial joints. It has been proven safe for repeated courses of therapy and is suitable for patients who require longer-lasting pain relief than that provided by steroid injections.
As with any medical treatment, patient suitability is essential.
Ideal candidates for Durolane injections are those suffering from joint pain due to osteoarthritis, with a particular focus on knee arthritis, as studies show a 70% effectiveness rate for pain relief in this area.
Procedure and Administration
Before administering Durolane, the clinician should perform a thorough assessment and inform patients about the potential risks and benefits of the treatment. The injection should be performed using a sterile technique.
It is essential to ensure the injection site is clean and free of any infection before proceeding with the injection.
If necessary, local anaesthesia can be used to reduce discomfort during the procedure.
Aftercare Considerations
Following the injection, patients should be advised to:
- Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting and excessive weight-bearing for at least 48 hours
- Apply ice to the injection site if they experience swelling or discomfort
- Monitor the injection site for signs of infection or an adverse reaction
If patients experience any severe pain, prolonged swelling, or other concerning symptoms, they should consult their clinicianas soon as possible. A follow-up appointment may be necessary to assess their progress and determine if further treatments are needed.
Patients can typically expect to experience pain relief and improvements in joint function for several months following treatment.
However, the duration of relief may vary from person to person and depend on the severity of their osteoarthritis.
Efficacy and Outcomes
Clinical Studies
A review of clinical evidence on Durolane, showed that it is an effective and safe intra-articular treatment option for patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee.
This review compared the efficacy and safety of Durolane injections relative to other treatments, such as saline injections, corticosteroids, platelet-rich plasma, and mesenchymal stem cells.
Another study assessed the safety and efficacy of a single ultrasound-guided injection of Durolane in patients with mild to moderate hip OA found that Durolane may help alleviate pain associated with the disease.
Patient Reported Outcomes
When compared with other non-surgical treatments for knee arthritis, hyaluronic acid injections were found to be the most effective, with outcomes equal to those of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections. This demonstrates that Durolane could be a viable treatment option for patients suffering from OA of the knee.
To summarise:
- Durolane is an effective and safe treatment option for OA of the knee and mild to moderate hip OA
- Intra-articular treatments with Durolane outperformed other injectable therapies in clinical trials
Durolane is highly effective compared to other non-surgical treatments, with outcomes similar to PRP injections.
Safety and Adverse Effects
Durolane injections are considered safe and well-tolerated for the treatment of joint pain. However, like any medical procedure, there are some possible side effects and risks associated with this treatment. It is important for patients to be aware of these potential side effects in order to make an informed decision about their treatment.
Common side effects associated with Durolane injections include localized pain, swelling, and stiffness at the injection site. These symptoms are typically mild or moderate in intensity and resolve on their own without the need for additional medical attention“`.
- In a clinical study, 8.6% of patients reported joint pain, 2.3% experienced injection site pain, and 1.7% encountered joint swelling after receiving Durolane injections ^5^.
Durolane is also safe for repeat treatments, as repeated courses of therapy do not increase the incidence of adverse events ^2^. This is particularly beneficial for patients requiring ongoing treatment to manage their symptoms.
Less common, but more severe side effects can occur, although the incidence of these complications is rare. Patients should seek medical attention if they experience any severe or persistent side effects following a Durolane injection ^4^.
In summary, the safety profile of Durolane injections is generally favourable, with most side effects being mild and short-lived. It is essential for patients to discuss their individual risks and benefits with their healthcare provider before proceeding with this treatment option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of a Durolane injection in the UK?
The cost of a Durolane injection in the UK can vary depending on the clinic and location. It is advised to consult your local healthcare provider or visit a specialist clinic to receive a personalised quotation for the treatment.
Can patients walk immediately after receiving a Durolane injection?
Yes, patients can generally walk immediately after receiving a Durolane injection. However, it is important to follow the advice of your healthcare professional, who may recommend taking it easy for a day or two after the treatment. Patients should gradually return to their normal activities as comfort allows.
Is Durolane classified as a gel-type injection?
Yes, Durolane is classified as a gel-type injection. It is a purified form of hyaluronic acid used to lubricate and act as a shock absorber in the joints, providing symptomatic relief for mild to moderate osteoarthritis.
How many times can one receive Durolane injections safely?
The safety of multiple Durolane injections depends on the individual patient’s needs and the severity of their osteoarthritis. One should consult their healthcare professional to discuss the appropriate schedule for receiving Durolane injections.
What are the potential side effects, such as severe pain, following a Durolane injection?
Potential side effects following a Durolane injection can include transient pain, swelling, and/or stiffness at the injection site. These side effects are generally mild and temporary. Durolane has no known contraindications. However, it should not be used if there are infections or skin diseases at the injection site. It has not been tested in pregnant or lactating women, or children.
Does the NHS provide coverage for Durolane treatments, and are they accessible under NHS provisions?
Durolane treatments may not be routinely available on the NHS, and availability can vary depending on your location. It is essential to consult your local NHS provider to determine the accessibility of Durolane treatments under their provisions. Some patients might opt for private clinics to receive treatment.
