Description
In this presentation, Leonardo Oliveira discusses the science behind combination injection therapies for osteoarthritis, highlighting the importance of cartilage preservation, particularly after partial meniscectomy. He emphasizes the dual nature of osteoarthritis, characterized by an inflammatory process and mechanical degradation, leading to pain and loss of function. Oliveira advocates for weight loss and exercise as foundational interventions, along with exploring additional combination therapies that could enhance patient outcomes.
He reviews various combinations, such as triamcinolone with hyaluronic acid (HA), discussing studies that show mixed results regarding their effectiveness over time, including improved pain relief shortly after injections but minimal long-term benefits. The presentation raises critical considerations about the cost, potential side effects, and the necessity for more robust clinical data to support certain combinations.
Oliveira also touches on the role of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in sports medicine, assessing its effectiveness alone and in combination with HA. He cites meta-analyses indicating no significant improvement when combining these treatments.
He concludes by highlighting the promise of mesenchymal stem cells, particularly their immunomodulatory effects, in combination with other therapies as a potential avenue for improved knee joint health. Ultimately, the takeaway from the presentation is a realization that while some combinations may not yield better outcomes, ongoing investigation into innovative treatment modalities, especially in the context of preserving joint health post-meniscectomy, continues to be essential.