Arthrosamid® Injection Cost: What You Need To Know

Arthrosamid® is a relatively new, injectable treatment for knee osteoarthritis, developed by Contura A/S. It is a non-biodegradable polyacrylamide hydrogel that is injected into the knee joint to improve lubrication by enhancing the synovial fluid within the joint.

Because it is a specialist, newer treatment, the cost of Arthrosamid® can vary significantly between clinics, regions and patients. In broad terms, the price per injection can start from the low hundreds and rise to several thousand in local currency, depending on dosage, how many joints are treated, and who performs the procedure.

How Much Does An Arthrosamid® Injection Cost?

On average, Arthrosamid® treatment for knee osteoarthritis is often priced around:

• Up to £2,995 for a single knee joint
• Around £5,000 for both knees

These figures usually reflect the main injection procedure itself. However, additional imaging (such as ultrasound or MRI) is often used to guide the needle accurately into the joint, and this can increase the overall cost.

In more severe or persistent cases, patients may require a top-up dose. Typical supplementary pricing can be:

• Around £2,300 for one knee
• Around £4,300 for both knees

Exact pricing will depend on the clinic and how they structure their treatment packages, so it is important to request a detailed quote that clearly sets out what is included.

6 Key Factors That Influence Arthrosamid® Cost

The price you pay for Arthrosamid® knee injections can differ widely from clinic to clinic. Below are the main factors that tend to affect the final cost.

1. Arthrosamid® Dosage

Dosage is one of the most important cost drivers.

• Many patients will pay around £2,500 or more to treat one knee, and roughly double that amount if both knees are treated.
• The quantity of hydrogel required can vary. Some people may manage with a single injection session for both knees, while others may need up to three injections for one knee if their osteoarthritis is more advanced or their response to treatment is slower.

More product and more treatment sessions naturally increase the overall price.

2. Location Of The Clinic

Where you are treated makes a big difference:

• Major cities and metropolitan areas typically have higher overheads (rent, staff costs, insurance) and this is often reflected in higher treatment fees.
• Smaller towns or regional clinics may be able to offer lower prices.
• Local taxes and healthcare regulations also vary, influencing how much clinics need to charge.

Even within the same city, there can be substantial price differences between providers.

3. Product Manufacturer

Although Arthrosamid® itself is a specific branded product, there are other hydrogel and injectable options on the market. Prices can vary due to:

• Manufacturer pricing policies
• Distribution and import costs in different countries
• Clinic purchasing agreements or discounts

Some clinics might also offer alternative hydrogel products alongside Arthrosamid®. Comparing options, brands and prices – always with professional advice – can help you find a treatment that fits both your clinical needs and your budget.

4. Severity Of The Osteoarthritis

The more advanced your osteoarthritis, the more intensive your treatment may need to be.

• Mild to moderate osteoarthritis may respond well to a single injection per knee.
• More severe cases can require higher volumes, more frequent injections or top-up doses, all of which add to the cost over time.

If osteoarthritis is left untreated for years, cartilage damage and joint changes can become more pronounced. At that point, it may take more intervention – and therefore more expense – to achieve meaningful pain relief and improved function.

5. Experience Of The Practitioner

The expertise of the clinician performing the procedure is another cost factor.

• Highly experienced orthopaedic surgeons or sports medicine consultants may charge more, reflecting their advanced training, complication management skills and the demand for their services.
• Younger or less established practitioners may set lower prices to attract more patients and build their reputation.

Paying a little more for a practitioner with significant experience and a strong track record in joint injections can be worthwhile, especially when dealing with a relatively new treatment such as Arthrosamid®.

6. Additional Medical Costs

Arthrosamid® treatment is not just the injection itself. There are often extra related charges, such as:

• Diagnostic imaging – MRI scans or ultrasound to assess the joint and guide the needle
• Laboratory tests – blood tests or other investigations before treatment
• Medical supplies – sterile equipment, anaesthetic, dressings
• Follow-up appointments – reviews to monitor your progress

Some very experienced clinicians may be comfortable performing the injection with minimal imaging; others will use ultrasound or MRI routinely to improve accuracy and safety. Whether these costs are bundled into a package price or itemised separately will vary between clinics.

When Might You Need Arthrosamid® Injections?

Arthrosamid® is mainly used to manage knee osteoarthritis, particularly when more conservative measures are no longer providing sufficient relief.

Osteoarthritis often develops after years of wear and tear or as a consequence of earlier knee injuries, such as:

• Patellar tendonitis
• Meniscus tears
• Runner’s knee
• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury
• Plica syndrome
• Other cartilage and soft tissue injuries around the knee

People frequently start to notice significant pain and stiffness in their 50s and 60s, especially if they have a history of sports injuries, physically demanding work, or previous knee surgery.

Physiotherapy, exercise, weight management and pain-relieving medication are usually tried first. These approaches can reduce pain and improve mobility, but they may not provide long-term relief for everyone.

For those who are not ready for, or wish to avoid, major surgery, Arthrosamid® can be considered as:

• A minimally invasive alternative to knee replacement
• A possible option instead of procedures such as knee osteotomy, arthroscopy or cartilage restoration

Particularly in older or medically complex patients, avoiding major surgery can be attractive. However, deciding whether Arthrosamid® is appropriate for you should always be done in consultation with an orthopaedic or musculoskeletal specialist who understands your full medical history.

Is Arthrosamid® Worth The Cost?

Although the cost of Arthrosamid® injections can seem high, many people view it as an investment in:

• Pain reduction
• Improved mobility and quality of life
• Potentially delaying or avoiding knee replacement surgery

It is important to balance:

• The price of the injections and related tests
• The likely benefits and duration of pain relief
• The risks and recovery time of alternative options, especially major surgery

Always ask potential providers for a clear, written breakdown of costs and discuss how Arthrosamid® compares with other treatments in your particular case. A thorough assessment by a qualified orthopaedic or musculoskeletal specialist will help you make an informed, confident decision about whether Arthrosamid® is the right choice for your knees and your budget.