Polyacrylamide Hydrogel for Synovitis Treatment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for synovitis in mammals, such as visco-supplementation with hyaluronic acid and poly-sulfated glycosaminoglycans, provide only temporary relief and are associated with side effects and toxicity, lacking a long-lasting solution for pain management and tissue integration.
Innovation Solution
Administration of a polyacrylamide hydrogel (PAAG) to form a stable, long-lasting sub-synovial layer and novel synovial lining layer within joints, which integrates with host tissue and reduces pain by altering synovial cell composition and cytokine production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If visco-supplementation with hyaluronic acid or poly-sulfated glycosaminoglycans is used, then joint lubrication and flexibility are improved, but the treatment effect is only temporary and requires ongoing injections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the injected substance by using polyacrylamide hydrogel with specific cross-linking density and mesh size, transforming it from a degradable substance into a stable, long-lasting implant that persists in the joint cavity without degradation, thereby extending treatment duration from weeks/months to years
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite hydrogel structure formed by cross-linking polyacrylamide chains with specific agents, creating a network material that combines water-absorbing capacity with structural stability. This composite structure allows the gel to maintain its lubricating function while resisting degradation, solving the contradiction between temporary effect and durable action
2Object-affected harmful factors
If anti-inflammatory drugs or steroids are injected into the affected joint, then synovitis symptoms are treated, but toxicity and side effects occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces polyacrylamide hydrogel as a physical intermediary substance in the joint cavity that mechanically separates and cushions synovial surfaces, reducing friction and mechanical stress that trigger inflammation. This physical mediation approach treats synovitis symptoms without introducing chemical drugs, thereby avoiding their toxicity and side effects
3Duration of action of stationary object
If polyacrylamide hydrogel is injected into the joint, then a stable, long-lasting sub-synovial layer is formed, but the integration process involves foreign body reaction with macrophages and giant cells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the polyacrylamide hydrogel with a porous network structure having specific mesh sizes that allow host tissue cells to infiltrate and integrate with the implant. This porosity enables gradual tissue ingrowth throughout the hydrogel matrix, transforming the foreign body from an isolated implant into an integrated tissue construct, thereby reducing chronic foreign body reaction while maintaining long-term persistence
Data Source
Figure 1a~1d
Figure 2a~2d
AI summary
The present invention relates to a polyacrylamide hydrogel for use in prevention and/or treatment of synovitis or pain associated with synovitis in a mammal by formation of an extra layer to the synovial membrane i.e. a sub-synovial layer and a novel synovial lining layer. Synovitis may occur in association with arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or gout, and the mammal suffering from synovitis is a preferably a human, a racing animal or a companion animal.