The pathogenesis of AVN includes a defective blood supply to the knee joint. Local nitrates induce peripheral vasodilation and may improve blood supply to the affected tissue. This study aims to test whether the use of a nicotine patch may accelerate the healing process from AVN of the knee.
The main purpose of this study is to examine whether treatment with a local nitrate patch will improve MRI findings and clinical outcomes in patients with AVN of the knee. This is a double-blind prospective study that will include 50 adult volunteers, randomly assigned to a "nitrate" group that will be given a nitrate patch, and a "placebo" group that will be given a placebo patch. The following outcomes will be measured: * MRI findings before and after the patch treatment * Use of analgesics * Subjective pain relief.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
QUADRUPLE
Enrollment
30
patients in the study group will get a nitrate patch
control group patients will get a placebo patch
MRI scan after 6 weeks of treatment
Sheba Medical Center
Ramat Gan, Israel
Reduction in bone substrate edema
the area and percent of the knee which the edema involves
Time frame: 6 weeks
other MRI changes
reduction of subchondral fracture resolution of accompanied findings presence of femoral head or condyle flattening
Time frame: 6 weeks
analgesics use
according to the patient's self report
Time frame: 6 weeks
pain severity
according to a visual analouge scale
Time frame: 6 weeks
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.