For Release at 8:30 a.m., Monday, Nov. 10
For More Information, Contact:
Jim Moody
(404) 633-3777 until Nov. 6
(202) 371-4510 Nov. 7-12
Polymer Provides New Joint Surface in Osteoarthritis
A new polymer which can be introduced into a joint using minimally invasive techniques may one day provide relief for millions of people with osteoarthritis, according to research presented at the American College of Rheumatology National Scientific Meeting Nov. 9-12 in Washington, D.C.
Osteoarthritis is the wear-and-tear disease that affects the joints of about 16 million people in the United States. In osteoarthritis, cartilage that covers the ends of the bones in the joint breaks down, preventing smooth movement in the joint. The disease can become so painful that the only treatment is joint replacement, a costly procedure that has a long recovery time.
But research presented by Jeffrey C. Felt, MD, indicates that a new polymer can provide a smooth surface to restore joints in which the cartilage is degraded. The liquid polymer, under development by Advanced Bio-Surfaces, Inc., is applied to the joint surface. The polymer cures in the body and restores the bone surface. This allows the bone surfaces to glide smoothly against each other and reduce the painful effects of osteoarthritis.
The polymer has been tested in sheep with promising results. The Minnesota researchers noted encouraging signs of cartilage regeneration adjacent to the polymer. The substance caused no inflammation in the joints and no damage to surrounding structures.
"As with any new substance injected into the body, our biggest concern is safety," Dr. Felt said. "We did a thorough examination of the animals in which we injected the polymer, and we found no abnormalities. This research is preliminary, and more tests are necessary to determine whether this product works safely over the long term, but the early data is very encouraging."
The paper will be presented on Monday, Nov. 10, at a news conference co-sponsored by the American College of Rheumatology and the University of Missouri-Columbia Arthritis Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (MARRTC). MARRTC is funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research within the U.S. Department of Education.
The American College of Rheumatology is the professional organization for rheumatologists and health professionals who share a dedication to healing, preventing disability and curing arthritis and related rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders. # # #
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