Arthrosamid NHS: Brief Guide on Availability

Key Takeaways

• Arthrosamid is an advanced injectable hydrogel designed for long-lasting pain relief in individuals with knee osteoarthritis.

• Arthrosamid is not currently available through the NHS, but patients can access it through private healthcare providers in the UK.

• The cost of Arthrosamid injections can vary, with prices in the £3,000 area for a single knee and around £5,000 for both knees. (NOTE: actual prices may vary - please check with you healthcare provider)

• An ongoing NHS study at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust aims to investigate the effectiveness and mode of action of Arthrosamid.

• MSK Doctors offers comprehensive care and personalized guidance for patients seeking Arthrosamid injections, with a focus on optimal outcomes and advocating for broader access to this innovative treatment.

Understanding Arthrosamid and Its Availability in the UK

What is Arthrosamid? 

Arthrosamid is an advanced injectable hydrogel specifically designed for long-lasting pain relief in individuals suffering from knee osteoarthritis. 

It integrates with the synovial tissue in the knee, providing essential cushioning and reducing pain effectively. Its minimally invasive nature and duration of efficacy make it a compelling option for those seeking alternatives to more invasive procedures like knee replacement surgery.

Current NHS Coverage 

As of now, Arthrosamid is not available through the National Health Service (NHS). 

Since it’s a relatively new therapy, Arthrosamid may still be under review by the relevant health technology assessment bodies like the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). 

These organizations evaluate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of treatments before recommending them for NHS adoption.

Private Clinics Providing Arthrosamid Treatments

Private clinics offer Arthrosamid injections with shorter wait times and specialized care.

For patients in England and Wales, the private healthcare route remains the primary way to access Arthrosamid injections. 

AMSK Arthrosamid Clinic, located on Harley Street in London, is the UK's premier clinic for Arthrosamid injections. Led by Prof. Paul Lee, AMSK has performed over 200 successful injections and is the first in the UK to offer this advanced care.

Geographical Availability 

Arthrosamid injections are currently available at select clinics across the United Kingdom and Ireland, providing patients with access to this innovative treatment for knee osteoarthritis.

 In England, several locations offer Arthrosamid, including:

• London: Weymouth Street Hospital, 108 Harley Street Clinic, AMSK Arthrosamid Clinic (Harley Street), London Cartilage Clinic, HCA London Bridge Hospital, and 9 Harley Street

• Midlands: MSK House Clinic (Sleaford), The Keep Clinic (Grantham), Nuffield Shrewsbury Hospital, and Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital Consulting Rooms (Oswestry)

• South: New Hall Hospital (Salisbury)

• North West: My MSK Clinic (Burnley and Manchester)

• Lincoln: The Lincoln Hospital (part of Circle Health Group)

In Wales, patients can receive Arthrosamid injections at Spire Cardiff Hospital and Nuffield Health Cardiff Bay Hospital. 

For those in Ireland, the Mater Private Cork hospital offers this treatment.

Cost Considerations for Arthrosamid Injections 

Current Pricing Structure 

Currently, Arthrosamid injections are primarily available through private healthcare providers in the UK, as the treatment is not yet covered by the NHS. 

The cost of these injections can vary depending on factors such as the clinic's location, the healthcare provider's expertise, and the specific needs of the patient.

Patients can expect to pay around £3,000 for a single knee injection and up to £5,000 for injections in both knees. In some cases, particularly for those with more severe osteoarthritis, a top-up dose may be necessary, which can cost an extra £2-5k.

Note: The price ranges mentioned above are approximate and subject to change over time and across different locations. Costs may vary based on factors such as clinic pricing policies, the healthcare provider's experience, and evolving market conditions. It’s always advisable to check with individual providers for the most up-to-date pricing and availability.

Additional Factors Affecting Cost 

In addition to the base cost of the Arthrosamid injection, patients should be aware of potential additional expenses related to the treatment. 

These may include:

• Initial consultation fees

• Diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or MRIs

• Pre-treatment lab work

• Medical supplies used during the injection procedure

• Follow-up visits to monitor progress and address any concerns

Some clinics may offer package pricing that bundles these services together, which can help patients better understand and manage the total cost of their treatment.

Weighing the Benefits and Costs 

As a single-injection therapy with lasting effects, Arthrosamid has the potential to provide extended relief from knee osteoarthritis symptoms, which can greatly improve a patient's quality of life and ability to engage in daily activities.

The long-lasting nature of Arthrosamid may reduce the need for frequent, ongoing treatments, which could result in cost savings over time when compared to other treatment options that require multiple injections or regular maintenance doses.

Ongoing Research and Future Prospects

Research on Arthrosamid continues, aiming to improve accessibility and long-term outcomes.

A pioneering NHS study is currently underway at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (RJAH) to investigate the effectiveness and mode of action of Arthrosamid in treating knee osteoarthritis. 

The study, funded by Contura Orthopaedics with a research grant of over £150,000, aims to provide valuable insights into how Arthrosamid works and identify potential markers that could help predict patient response to the treatment.

Study Design and Participants 

Chief Investigator, Professor Martyn Snow, is overseeing the research project, which has recruited 60 patients with knee osteoarthritis who are considered by their consultant as requiring non-surgical treatment. 

The study will monitor various outcome measures, including:

• Knee pain (Visual Analogue Scale)

• Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS)

• Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC)

Patients will be followed up initially at 12 months and then up to 5 years post-injection or until total knee replacement surgery, whichever comes first.

Investigating Arthrosamid's Mode of Action 

The research team will also analyze synovial fluid samples from patients receiving Arthrosamid to gain a better understanding of the biological changes occurring in the joint due to the treatment. By combining state-of-the-art proteomics and bioinformatics techniques, the study aims to:

1. Look into the potential modes of action

2. Identify proteins that could serve as predictive biomarkers for treatment response.

Implications for NHS Availability 

The findings from this NHS study could have significant implications for the future availability of Arthrosamid within the NHS. Positive results demonstrating the treatment's effectiveness and cost-efficiency could pave the way for broader access to this innovative therapy for patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Why Choose MSK Doctors for Your Arthrosamid Treatment?

MSK Doctors provides expert Arthrosamid treatment with no referral needed and no waiting list.

At MSK Doctors, our team of experienced orthopaedic surgeons and sports medicine specialists are well-versed in the latest advancements in knee osteoarthritis treatment, including Arthrosamid injections. 

We understand the challenges patients face when seeking access to innovative treatments like Arthrosamid within the UK healthcare system. 

Our experts offer personalized guidance to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your care, whether through private clinics or exploring potential NHS coverage in the future.

Comprehensive Care for Optimal Outcomes 

We believe in taking a comprehensive approach to managing knee osteoarthritis, tailoring treatment plans to your unique needs and goals. 

Our specialists conduct thorough evaluations to determine if Arthrosamid is right for you and develop personalized care plans that maximize the benefits of this innovative treatment. From initial consultation to post-treatment support, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality care to help you achieve the best possible outcomes.

Advocacy and Support for Broader Access 

Advocacy efforts push for wider NHS coverage of Arthrosamid to improve patient access.

At MSK Doctors, we are committed to advocating for broader access to effective treatments like Arthrosamid. We understand the importance of patient voices in shaping healthcare policies and are dedicated to supporting efforts to increase Arthrosamid's availability through the NHS. 

Our team actively engages in research, collaborates with patient advocacy groups, and participates in policy discussions to help drive positive change and ensure more patients can benefit from this promising treatment.

Ready to take the first step towards long-lasting relief from knee osteoarthritis? 

Book a consultation on our website to learn more about how Arthrosamid injections at MSK Doctors can help you reclaim your active lifestyle and achieve better joint health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Arthrosamid and how does it work? 

Arthrosamid is an advanced injectable hydrogel designed for long-lasting pain relief in individuals with knee osteoarthritis. It integrates with the synovial tissue in the knee, providing essential cushioning and reducing pain effectively.

Is Arthrosamid available through the NHS? 

Currently, Arthrosamid is not available through the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. It may still be under review by relevant health technology assessment bodies like the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

How can patients in the UK access Arthrosamid injections? 

For patients in England and Wales, the private healthcare route remains the primary way to access Arthrosamid injections. Several clinics across the UK, such as AMSK Arthrosamid Clinic in London, offer this treatment.

What is the average cost of Arthrosamid injections in the UK?

On average, patients can expect to pay around £3,000 for a single knee injection and up to £6,000 for injections in both knees. In some cases, particularly for those with more severe osteoarthritis, a top-up dose may be necessary, which can cost an additional £2-5,000.

What makes MSK Doctors a top choice for Arthrosamid treatment in the UK? 

MSK Doctors offers comprehensive care and personalized guidance for patients seeking Arthrosamid injections. 

Our team of experienced orthopaedic surgeons and sports medicine specialists are well-versed in the latest advancements in knee osteoarthritis treatment and are dedicated to helping patients achieve optimal outcomes while advocating for broader access to this innovative therapy.