| Prof. Dr. Çetin Işık
Who is Chitosan Injection Applied To?
Chitosan injection is a supportive treatment method applied using the injectable form of chitosan, a biocompatible and naturally derived substance. In recent years, it has gained attention in orthopedics to support tissue healing, regulate the intra-articular environment, and contribute to post-surgical recovery. Chitosan injection is not a replacement for conventional treatments; rather, it is a supportive approach when applied with the correct indication in suitable patients.
Prof. Dr. Çetin Işık, who closely follows the clinical use of biocompatible materials in orthopedics and traumatology, emphasizes that chitosan injection is not suitable for every patient and must be planned after a detailed orthopedic evaluation.
What is Chitosan Injection?
Chitosan injection is the application of chitosan, a natural polysaccharide derived from shellfish, into tissue or joint via injection. Due to its biocompatible structure, chitosan is generally well tolerated by the body and may support healing processes in certain conditions.
The Purpose of Chitosan Use in Orthopedics
In orthopedic problems, the main goals are to reduce pain, preserve function, and support tissue healing. Chitosan is considered in specific patient groups because of its potential to support these objectives.
Which Orthopedic Patients are Suitable for Chitosan Injection?
Chitosan injection is not a routine treatment applied to every orthopedic patient. It is considered in specific cases and appropriate patient groups.
Patients with Joint Cartilage Problems
Cartilage tissue has a limited capacity for self-regeneration. Therefore, supportive treatments may be needed in cartilage damage.
Patients with Early-Stage Cartilage Damage
Chitosan injection may be considered as a supportive option in patients with early cartilage degeneration without severe joint deterioration.
Patients with Superficial Damage in the Knee and Hip
It may be planned as an adjunct to primary treatment, especially in patients with superficial cartilage problems in the knee and hip joints.
Patients Undergoing Joint-Preserving Treatment
In young and active patients, delaying joint replacement surgery is one of the main goals of orthopedics.
Young Patients Not Requiring Joint Replacement
Chitosan injection may be considered as a supportive treatment in patients whose joints can still be preserved.
Patients After Joint-Preserving Surgery
It may be evaluated to support recovery after joint-preserving procedures such as core decompression or microfracture surgery.
Prof. Dr. Çetin Işık states that supportive biological treatments become more meaningful in joint-preserving approaches when applied with proper patient selection.
Patients in the Post-Surgical Recovery Period
Tissue healing after orthopedic surgery may take time.
Supporting Soft Tissue Healing
Chitosan injection may be considered to support healing in ligaments, tendons, and surrounding soft tissues.
Supporting the Healing Environment After Surgery
Due to its antibacterial properties, chitosan may help support the post-surgical healing environment. However, this must always be performed under specialist supervision.
Patients with Sports Injuries
Orthopedic injuries in athletes require proper and timely recovery.
Muscle and Ligament Injuries
It may be considered as a supportive treatment in mild to moderate muscle and ligament injuries.
Joint Problems Caused by Overuse
It may be evaluated to support tissue repair in joint problems caused by repetitive strain.
Who is Not Suitable for Chitosan Injection?
Not every patient is suitable for chitosan injection. A detailed evaluation is necessary before the procedure.
Patients with Advanced Osteoarthritis
Meaningful benefit is not expected in patients with severe joint damage and bone deformity.
Patients Requiring Joint Replacement
In patients with hip or knee replacement indication, these injections are not considered curative.
Patients with Allergic Conditions
Caution should be exercised in individuals with shellfish allergies, and in some cases, the injection should not be applied.
Why is Orthopedic Evaluation Important Before Chitosan Injection?
Proper patient selection is essential for the effectiveness and safety of chitosan injection.
Imaging and Clinical Examination
X-ray, MRI, and clinical examination should be performed to clearly evaluate joint and tissue condition.
Determining the Treatment Goal
The goal should be clearly defined, whether it is pain reduction, functional improvement, or healing support.
Is Chitosan Injection Sufficient Alone?
Chitosan injection is not a miracle treatment when used alone.
Combined Treatment Approach
More meaningful results may be achieved when combined with physical therapy, exercise programs, and medical treatments.
Chitosan injection is a biocompatible supportive application that may be considered in selected orthopedic patients. Early-stage joint problems, joint-preserving treatment plans, post-surgical recovery, and certain sports injuries are among the main areas where it may be used. However, it is not suitable for every orthopedic patient and requires specialist evaluation.
With his clinical experience in orthopedics and traumatology, Prof. Dr. Çetin Işık emphasizes that biological supportive treatments such as chitosan injection can provide meaningful benefits when used with proper indication and correct patient selection.
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