Patient Guide for Intra-Articular Knee nSTRIDE APS Injection

An intra-articular knee nSTRIDE APS injection is a non-surgical procedure that uses a small sample of your own blood to prepare a concentrated solution of anti-inflammatory proteins. The prepared solution is then injected into the knee joint to help reduce pain and inflammation, commonly in patients with knee osteoarthritis or cartilage wear and tear.

This guide explains how to prepare for the injection, what to expect at the clinic or hospital, and how to care for your knee after the procedure.

What to Expect Before and After a Knee nSTRIDE APS Injection

1.  Preparing for the Procedure

• Medical Preparation:
  • Complete any required pre-procedure tests (e.g., blood work or imaging) as directed by your doctor.
  • Discuss all medications with your doctor; you may need to pause anti-inflammatory drugs or blood thinners.
  • Inform your doctor of any health conditions, allergies, or recent infections.
• Physical Preparation:
  • No specific exercises are typically required, but maintaining general mobility can help.
  • Arrange to rest your knee post-procedure; avoid planning strenuous activities for the day.
  • Maintain a healthy diet to support overall health.
• Home Preparation:
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home, as you may experience temporary discomfort or limited mobility.
  • Prepare a comfortable area with ice packs and pillows to elevate your leg if needed.
• Logistics:
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing, especially pants that allow easy access to your knee.
  • Bring ID, insurance details, and any required paperwork.
  • Follow fasting instructions if sedation is planned (usually not required; confirm with your doctor).

2.  About the Procedure and Potential Complications

• Procedure Overview:
  • The nSTRIDE APS injection takes about 30–60 minutes and is performed in an outpatient setting, often under local anesthesia.
  • A small amount of blood is drawn from your arm, processed to concentrate anti-inflammatory proteins, and injected into the knee joint to reduce pain and inflammation, typically for osteoarthritis or patients with cartilage wear and tear.
  • The goal is to alleviate knee pain and improve function by targeting inflammation.

• Potential Complications (rare but possible):
  • Infection: Very rare (<1%); treated with antibiotics if it occurs.
  • Pain or Swelling: Temporary discomfort at the injection site is common”
  • Lack of Effectiveness: Some patients may not experience significant pain relief.
  • Nerve Irritation: Rare, may cause temporary numbness or tingling.
  • Your medical team will use sterile techniques to minimize risks.

3.  What to Expect in the Clinic/Hospital

• Length of Stay: Typically, an outpatient procedure or occasionally done in a day surgery centre, lasting 1–2 hours total, including preparation and recovery.
• During the Procedure:
  • You will be positioned comfortably, and the knee area will be cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia.
  • The injection is guided by either ultrasound or palpation for accuracy.
  • You may feel mild pressure or discomfort during the injection.
• Post-Procedure:
  • You will be monitored briefly (15–30 minutes) for any immediate reactions.
  • Pain management may include paracetamol or ice packs.
  • You will receive instructions on activity restrictions and follow-up care before discharge.
• Discharge:
  • You can usually leave once stable and comfortable, often within an hour.
  • A driver is recommended, as mild soreness may affect mobility.

4.  What to Expect After Discharge

• Recovery Timeline:
  • First 1 Week: Mild soreness or swelling at the injection site; rest and avoid strenuous activity.
  • 1–2 weeks: Gradual improvement in knee pain and mobility; effects may take weeks to fully manifest.
  • 1–3 Months: Optimal pain relief and function improvement, depending on your condition.
• At Home:
  • Pain and Swelling: Mild discomfort is normal for a few days; use ice packs (20 minutes every 2–3 hours) and over-the-counter pain relievers as advised.
  • Mobility: Avoid high-impact activities (e.g., running, jumping) for 1–2 weeks or as directed. Normal walking is usually fine.
  • Wound Care: The injection site requires minimal care; keep it clean and dry, and monitor for signs of infection (redness, swelling, fever).
  • Activity: Resume light activities as tolerated, but follow your doctor’s guidance on returning to exercise or sports.
• Lifestyle Adjustments:
  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knee.
  • Follow any recommended physical therapy or exercises to support knee function.
  • Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet to aid recovery.

• Follow-Up:
  • Attend follow-up appointments (typically 4-6 weeks post-procedure) to assess progress.
  • Contact your doctor immediately if you experience fever, severe pain, significant swelling, or signs of infection.

Final Tips:

• Be patient, as pain relief may take weeks to fully develop.
• Follow your doctor’s advice on activity to maximize benefits.
• Contact your healthcare team with any concerns.

Wishing you a successful procedure and effective relief!