Intra-articular Dexmedetomidine for Treatment of Chronic Knee Pain: A Prospective Case-Control Clinical Trial

What this Trial Is About

Chronic knee osteoarthritis is a painful condition with limited treatment options that often reduce quality of life. Researchers are evaluating intra-articular dexmedetomidine, a sedative and pain-relief drug, as a new treatment for chronic knee pain. This prospective case-control clinical trial compares dexmedetomidine with other drugs to explore its potential benefits for managing pain in patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis. The study involves two groups of patients with chronic knee pain who have not received medical treatment and have decreased physical function and quality of life. One group receives dexmedetomidine injected into the knee joint, prepared as a 3 μg/kg dose in saline. The other groups receive active comparators: triamcinolone acetonide or bupivacaine hydrochloride injections. The study is randomized and double-blinded to fairly compare the treatments. Participants will be monitored for at least seven months after the injection. Researchers will assess pain levels using a numerical rating scale, focusing on the proportion of patients experiencing at least a 50% reduction in pain. The trial includes regular evaluations to measure pain relief and physical function, with safety monitored throughout the study period. The total participation time aligns with the follow-up duration to observe treatment effects.

Intra-Articular Dexmedetomidine: A Treatment for Chronic Knee Pain