Owner-reported outcomes indicate intra-articular 2.5% polyacrylamide hydrogel injection is well tolerated and reduces osteoarthritis signs in dogs.

Abstract

Objective: To assess owner-reported outcomes following IA injection of 2.5% injectable polyacrylamide hydrogel (2.5% iPAAG) for osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs.

Methods: An anonymous survey was distributed between November 2023 and April 2024. Email invitations were sent to 191 owners whose dogs were treated with 2.5% iPAAG. The survey assessed owner-reported outcomes regarding perceived efficacy, tolerability, and changes in the use of adjunctive therapies following treatment.

Results: Surveys were completed by 100 owners (52% response rate), reporting on 150 injections across 100 dogs, including 46 dogs treated in multiple joints. The most frequently treated joints were the elbows (n = 79), hips (28), and shoulders (21). Eighty-two percent (82 of 100) of owners rated their dog as "somewhat better" or "much better" on a 5-point Likert scale, indicating a positive treatment response. Among dogs receiving analgesic pharmaceuticals at the time of injection (n = 80), 44% (35 of 80) reduced or discontinued the pharmaceuticals after treatment. Of the 49 dogs receiving additional therapies, 47% (23 of 49) discontinued ≥ 1 intervention after treatment. Mild and self-limiting adverse events were reported in 10% (10 of 100) of dogs, with injection site soreness being the most common. Ninety percent (90 of 100) of owners indicated they would consider repeating the treatment if recommended by their veterinarian.

Conclusions: Owner-reported outcomes suggest that 2.5% iPAAG was well tolerated and associated with reduced OA signs and adjunctive therapy use.

Clinical relevance: These findings support further investigation of 2.5% iPAAG as a targeted therapy for canine OA. Controlled, prospective studies are needed to confirm its clinical efficacy.