The Synergistic Effects of Hyaluronic Acid and Platelet-Rich Plasma for Patellar Chondropathy.

Musculoskeletal disorders are increasingly prevalent worldwide, causing significant socioeconomic burdens and diminished quality of life. Notably, patellar chondropathy (PC) is among the most widespread conditions affecting joint structures, resulting in profound pain and disability. Hyaluronic acid (HA) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) have emerged as reliable, effective, and minimally invasive alternatives. Continuous research spanning from laboratory settings to clinical applications demonstrates the numerous advantages of both products. These encompass lubrication, anti-inflammation, and stimulation of cellular behaviors linked to proliferation, differentiation, migration, and the release of essential growth factors. Cumulatively, these benefits support the rejuvenation of bone and cartilaginous tissues, which are otherwise compromised due to the prevailing degenerative and inflammatory responses characteristic of tissue damage. While existing literature delves into the physical, mechanical, and biological facets of these products, as well as their commercial variants and distinct clinical uses, there is limited discussion on their interconnected roles. We explore basic science concepts, product variations, and clinical strategies. This comprehensive examination provides physicians with an alternative insight into the pathophysiology of PC as well as biological mechanisms stimulated by both HA and PRP that contribute to tissue restoration.

BRAZILIAN CONSENSUS STATEMENT ON VISCOSUPPLEMENTATION OF THE HIP (COBRAVI-Q).

Objective: The Brazilian Consensus on Hip Viscosupplementation aims to generate a referential and consensual source from the theoretical knowledge and clinical experience of specialists in the field. Methods: A multidisciplinary panel was formed with 15 specialists (sports medicine, orthopedists, physiatrists and rheumatologists), based on clinical and academic experience in the use of viscosupplementation of the hip. 12 statements were prepared, discussed and voted. Each panelist gave a value between 0 and 10 on a Likert scale, specifying their level of agreement with the statement. Results: The panel reached a consensus on several aspects of viscosupplementation of the hip, with emphasis on the following statements: best indication is for mild to moderate hip arthrosis; it may be indicated in severe osteoarthritis; results may vary according to the characteristics of the viscosupplement used; Viscosupplementation should not be performed as an isolated procedure, but in conjunction with other rehabilitation and pharmacological measures; best injection technique should be based on anatomical references coupled with imaging guidance; it is a cost-effective procedure. Conclusion: Viscosupplementation is a safe and effective therapy for hip osteoarthritis, even in severe cases. Guided injection is recommended. Level of Evidence V, Expert Opinion.

Objetivo: O Consenso Brasileiro de Viscossuplementação do Quadril visa gerar uma fonte referencial a partir do conhecimento teórico e da experiência clínica de especialistas da área. Métodos: Um painel multidisciplinar foi formado com quinze especialistas (médicos do esporte, ortopedistas, fisiatras e reumatologistas), com base na experiência clínica e acadêmica no uso da viscossuplementação do quadril. Foram elaboradas, discutidas e votadas doze afirmativas. Cada membro do painel deu um valor entre 0 e 10 numa escala tipo Likert, especificando seu nível de concordância com a afirmação. Resultados: O painel chegou a um consenso sobre diversos aspectos da viscossuplementação do quadril, destacando-se: a melhor indicação é para tratar artrose de quadril leve a moderada; pode ser indicada para casos graves; os resultados podem variar de acordo com o viscossuplemento utilizado; não deve ser realizada como procedimento isolado, mas em conjunto com outras medidas reabilitadoras e farmacológicas; a melhor técnica para infiltração no quadril deve se basear nas referências anatômicas combinadas com guiagem por imagem; a viscossuplementação do quadril é um procedimento custo-efetivo. Conclusão: A viscossuplementação é uma alternativa terapêutica segura e eficaz na osteoartrite do quadril, mesmo em casos graves. Recomenda-se o uso de métodos guiados. Nível de Evidência V, Opinião do Especialista.

Chikungunya Fever: Comparison Study of Synovitis and Tenosynovitis of the Hands and Wrists Using Physical Examination, Ultrasound, and MRI Findings.

OBJECTIVES: To compare musculoskeletal changes on a physical examination (PE), ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the hands and wrists of patients with Chikungunya fever (CF). METHODS: The sample consisted of 30 patients in the chronic phase of CF. The sites analyzed were the interphalangeal (IP), metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and wrist/mediocarpal (WMC) joints and periarticular soft tissue. The interval between the PE and imaging tests was 7 days, and the interval between US and MRI was 2 days. The kappa coefficient was calculated to estimate the agreement between the PE and US and MRI findings and between the US and MRI findings. RESULTS: Significant agreement was observed between PE and US in the diagnosis of synovitis. The only statistically significant agreement between US and MRI was the finding of flexor tenosynovitis; the agreement was moderate. CONCLUSIONS: US has great potential for use in diagnosing synovitis suspected based on a PE. The limited agreement observed between US and MRI, in turn, may suggest a complementary role of these methods.

Brazilian consensus statement on viscosupplementation of the hip (cobravi-q) / Consenso brasileiro de viscossuplementação do quadril (cobravi-q)

ABSTRACT Objective: The Brazilian Consensus on Hip Viscosupplementation aims to generate a referential and consensual source from the theoretical knowledge and clinical experience of specialists in the field. Methods: A multidisciplinary panel was formed with 15 specialists (sports medicine, orthopedists, physiatrists and rheumatologists), based on clinical and academic experience in the use of viscosupplementation of the hip. 12 statements were prepared, discussed and voted. Each panelist gave a value between 0 and 10 on a Likert scale, specifying their level of agreement with the statement. Results: The panel reached a consensus on several aspects of viscosupplementation of the hip, with emphasis on the following statements: best indication is for mild to moderate hip arthrosis; it may be indicated in severe osteoarthritis; results may vary according to the characteristics of the viscosupplement used; Viscosupplementation should not be performed as an isolated procedure, but in conjunction with other rehabilitation and pharmacological measures; best injection technique should be based on anatomical references coupled with imaging guidance; it is a cost-effective procedure. Conclusion: Viscosupplementation is a safe and effective therapy for hip osteoarthritis, even in severe cases. Guided injection is recommended. Level of Evidence V, Expert Opinion.

RESUMO Objetivo: O Consenso Brasileiro de Viscossuplementação do Quadril visa gerar uma fonte referencial a partir do conhecimento teórico e da experiência clínica de especialistas da área. Métodos: Um painel multidisciplinar foi formado com quinze especialistas (médicos do esporte, ortopedistas, fisiatras e reumatologistas), com base na experiência clínica e acadêmica no uso da viscossuplementação do quadril. Foram elaboradas, discutidas e votadas doze afirmativas. Cada membro do painel deu um valor entre 0 e 10 numa escala tipo Likert, especificando seu nível de concordância com a afirmação. Resultados: O painel chegou a um consenso sobre diversos aspectos da viscossuplementação do quadril, destacando-se: a melhor indicação é para tratar artrose de quadril leve a moderada; pode ser indicada para casos graves; os resultados podem variar de acordo com o viscossuplemento utilizado; não deve ser realizada como procedimento isolado, mas em conjunto com outras medidas reabilitadoras e farmacológicas; a melhor técnica para infiltração no quadril deve se basear nas referências anatômicas combinadas com guiagem por imagem; a viscossuplementação do quadril é um procedimento custo-efetivo. Conclusão: A viscossuplementação é uma alternativa terapêutica segura e eficaz na osteoartrite do quadril, mesmo em casos graves. Recomenda-se o uso de métodos guiados. Nível de Evidência V, Opinião do Especialista.

A White Paper on Collagen Hydrolyzates and Ultrahydrolyzates: Potential Supplements to Support Joint Health in Osteoarthritis?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common forms of arthritis in the general population, accounting for more pain and functional disability than any other musculoskeletal disease. There are currently no approved disease modifying drugs for OA. In the absence of effective pharmacotherapy, many patients with OA turn to nutritional supplements and nutraceuticals, including collagen derivatives. Collagen hydrolyzates and ultrahydrolyzates are terms used to describe collagens that have been broken down into small peptides and amino acids in the presence of collagenases and high pressure. RECENT FINDINGS: This article reviews the relevant literature and serves as a White Paper on collagen hydrolyzates and ultrahydrolyzates as emerging supplements often advertised to support joint health in OA. Collagen hydrolyzates have demonstrated some evidence of efficacy in a handful of small scale clinical trials, but their ability to treat and reverse advanced joint disease remains highly speculative, as is the case for other nutritional supplements. The aim of this White Paper is to stimulate research and development of collagen-based supplements for patients with OA and other musculoskeletal diseases at academic and industrial levels. This White Paper does not make any treatment recommendations for OA patients in the clinical context, but simply aims to highlight opportunities for scientific innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, which are crucial for the development of novel products and nutritional interventions based on the best available and published evidence.

BRAZILIAN CONSENSUS STATEMENT ON VISCOSUPPLEMENTATION OF THE KNEE (COBRAVI).

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this consensus statement on viscosupplementation is to serve as a reference document based on relevant literature and clinical experience in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis using an intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid, covering key aspects such as clinical indications, effectiveness, and tolerability. METHODS: A multidisciplinary panel including two sports medicine physicians, six orthopedists, four physiatrists, and two rheumatologists were selected based on their clinical and academic experience of viscosupplementation. Sixteen statements were prepared and discussed, after which a vote was held. Each member of the panel gave a score between 0 and 10 on a Likert scale, specifying their level of agreement with the statement. RESULTS: The panel reached a consensus on several issues. Specifically, the panel agreed that the best indication is for mild to moderate knee arthrosis; prior or concomitant use of intraarticular triamcinolone hexacetonide may optimize the effect of hyaluronic acid; viscosupplementation should not be performed as an isolated procedure but in conjunction with other rehabilitative and pharmacological measures; viscosupplementation has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and chondroprotective effects; and viscosupplementation is cost-effective. CONCLUSION: This consensus statement provides clear information and guidance for both individuals and payers. Level of evidence V, Consensus statement.

OBJETIVO: O Consenso Brasileiro de Viscossuplementação visa gerar uma fonte referencial e consensual, a partir de levantamentos bibliográficos relevantes, do conhecimento teórico e da experiência clínica de especialistas de áreas afins para tratamento de viscossuplementação na osteoartrite do joelho, mitigando pontos críticos desse procedimento, como via de aplicação, indicação, eficácia e tolerabilidade. MÉTODOS: Um painel multidisciplinar foi formado com dois médicos do esporte, seis ortopedistas, quatro fisiatras e dois reumatologistas, com base nas experiências clínica e acadêmica no uso da viscossuplementação. Foram elaboradas, discutidas e votadas 16 afirmativas. Cada membro do painel deu um valor entre zero e 10, em uma escala tipo Likert, especificando seu nível de concordância com a afirmação. RESULTADOS: O painel chegou a um consenso sobre diversos aspectos da viscossuplementação, com destaque para as seguintes afirmativas: a melhor indicação é para artrose de joelhos leve a moderada; o uso prévio ou concomitante de hexacetonido de triancinolona intra-articular pode otimizar o efeito do ácido hialurônico; a viscossuplementação não deve ser realizada como procedimento isolado no tratamento da OA, mas em conjunto com outras medidas reabilitadoras e farmacológicas; promove efeito analgésico; anti-inflamatório; condroprotetor; e é custo-efetiva. CONCLUSÃO: Este consenso traz informações claras e servirá, como guia tanto para médicos quanto para as fontes pagadoras. Nível de evidência V, Consenso de especialistas.

Brazilian consensus statement on viscosupplementation of the knee (cobravi) / Consenso brasileiro de viscossuplementação do joelho (cobravi)

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this consensus statement on viscosupplementation is to serve as a reference document based on relevant literature and clinical experience in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis using an intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid, covering key aspects such as clinical indications, effectiveness, and tolerability. Methods: A multidisciplinary panel including two sports medicine physicians, six orthopedists, four physiatrists, and two rheumatologists were selected based on their clinical and academic experience of viscosupplementation. Sixteen statements were prepared and discussed, after which a vote was held. Each member of the panel gave a score between 0 and 10 on a Likert scale, specifying their level of agreement with the statement. Results: The panel reached a consensus on several issues. Specifically, the panel agreed that the best indication is for mild to moderate knee arthrosis; prior or concomitant use of intraarticular triamcinolone hexacetonide may optimize the effect of hyaluronic acid; viscosupplementation should not be performed as an isolated procedure but in conjunction with other rehabilitative and pharmacological measures; viscosupplementation has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and chondroprotective effects; and viscosupplementation is cost-effective. Conclusion: This consensus statement provides clear information and guidance for both individuals and payers. Level of evidence V, Consensus statement.

RESUMO Objetivo: O Consenso Brasileiro de Viscossuplementação visa gerar uma fonte referencial e consensual, a partir de levantamentos bibliográficos relevantes, do conhecimento teórico e da experiência clínica de especialistas de áreas afins para tratamento de viscossuplementação na osteoartrite do joelho, mitigando pontos críticos desse procedimento, como via de aplicação, indicação, eficácia e tolerabilidade. Métodos: Um painel multidisciplinar foi formado com dois médicos do esporte, seis ortopedistas, quatro fisiatras e dois reumatologistas, com base nas experiências clínica e acadêmica no uso da viscossuplementação. Foram elaboradas, discutidas e votadas 16 afirmativas. Cada membro do painel deu um valor entre zero e 10, em uma escala tipo Likert, especificando seu nível de concordância com a afirmação. Resultados: O painel chegou a um consenso sobre diversos aspectos da viscossuplementação, com destaque para as seguintes afirmativas: a melhor indicação é para artrose de joelhos leve a moderada; o uso prévio ou concomitante de hexacetonido de triancinolona intra-articular pode otimizar o efeito do ácido hialurônico; a viscossuplementação não deve ser realizada como procedimento isolado no tratamento da OA, mas em conjunto com outras medidas reabilitadoras e farmacológicas; promove efeito analgésico; anti-inflamatório; condroprotetor; e é custo-efetiva. Conclusão: Este consenso traz informações claras e servirá, como guia tanto para médicos quanto para as fontes pagadoras. Nível de evidência V, Consenso de especialistas.

Performance of quality of life and functional capacity in women with knee osteoarthritis treated with viscosupplementation and strength training

The viscosupplementation and strength training are interventions accepted in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Objective: The study describes the effect of two interventions in quality of life and functional capacity. Method: Thirty women diagnosed with bilateral knee osteoarthritis of grade II and III by radiological criteria of Kellgren & Lawrence, were randomized into three groups with ten patients each: VSTF group submitted to viscosupplementation and strength training, TF group submitted only to strength training and VS group submitted only to viscossuplementation. Moments of the study were defined as pre-procedure (PRE), after 48 hours of VS (POS-VS) after 12 weeks of training (POS T) and after eight weeks of detraining (POS D). Quality of life was assessed by the SF-36 BRAZIL, functional capacity by Lequesne index. Intraarticular infiltrations were carried out with a single dose of 6 ml / 48 mg with 6,000,000 kDa Hylan GF-20 and strength training sessions were held for twelve weeks. Results: Strength training and viscosupplementation were effective in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Both interventions promoted improvements in quality of life and in functional capacity (p < 0.001), with advantage to the groups that trained force. Conclusion: Strength training is a possible replacement of viscosupplementation in the treatment of osteoarthritis of women's knees. However, the beneficial effect of viscosupplementation in pain reduction suggests better efficiency in the strength training execution which may be an advantage of the association of both

Infecção crônica pelo vírus C da hepatite: Manifestações reumáticas e alterações laboratoriais auto-imunes / Hepatitis C vírus cronic infections

A analise de sete pacientes com infecção crônica pelo vírus C da hepatite (VCH) demonstrou que cinco dos pacientes (71por cento) apresentaram artralgia ou artrite; fasciite palmar e plantar; mialgias e calcaneodina bilateral. Dois enfermos (28por cento) apresentarm crioglobulinemia positiva, sendo que um se queixava de mialgias em membros inferiores e o outro era assintomático. O fator reumatoide foi positivo em três doentes (42por cento) sem que apresentassem doença reumatóide. Em um deles a crioglobulinemia também foi positiva. Os auto-anticorpos antimicrossonal e antitireoglobulina foram detectados em três pacientes (42por cento) sem que houvesse quadro clínico de disfunção tireoideana. A pesquisa do FAN foi negativa nos sete pacientes e a dosagem do complemento C3 e C4, realizada em quatro pacientes, foi normal

Recentes avanços na terapia combinada das DARMD e na terapia biológica da artrite reumatóide / Combination DMARD therapy and biologic therapy in rheumatoid arthrits

A artrite reumatóide (AR) é uma doença auto-imune de etiopatogenia desconhecida e evoluçäo benigna. Entretanto, as formas mais graves da doença apresentam, deformidade articular severa, grande incapacidade funcional e mortalidade precoce. Nesses casos, a administraçäo da terapia combinada do metotrexate (MTX) com duas ou mais drogas anti-reumáticas modificadoras da doença (DARMD) geralmente é acompanhada de uma melhor respost terapêutica, principalmente, quando o MTX é associado a hidroxicloriquina (HCQ) e a sulfasalazina (SSZ). Mais recentemente, já se utiliza a terapia biológica no tratamento da AR refratária, que consiste no emprego de anticorpos monoclonais (Acm) anticélula T CD4+, com a finalidade de depletar ou modular sua funçäo e Acm anti-citoquinas específicas interferindo, desse modo, diretamente no processo inflamatório sinovial. No momento, entretanto, a maior eficácia da terapia biológica combinada é observada com o emprego simultâneo da ciclosporina A (CsA) com o MXT ou da CsA com a HCQ