Hyaluronic acid-loaded drug-eluting nanofibrous pad for the treatment of degenerative arthritis

Despite advancements in modern technology, treating degenerative arthritis remains a challenge. This study developed a degradable, hyaluronic acid-loaded, drug-eluting nanofibrous pad designed to provide extended pain relief and prevent infection at the knee joint. The mechanical performance of the biodegradable pads was assessed, and the pharmaceutical discharge kinetics were estimated using an <i>in vitro</i> elution method. Additionally, <i>in vivo</i> pharmaceutical release and efficacy were tested using a rabbit activity model. The experimental results suggest that the degradable pad exhibited strong mechanical properties. <i>In vitro</i>, the drug-eluting nanofibrous pad sustained the release of teicoplanin, ceftazidime, and ketorolac for 10, 24, and 30 days, respectively, and maintained high levels of connective tissue growth factor elution over a 30-day period. Moreover, animal testing demonstrated that the pad released significant amounts of antimicrobial and pain-relieving agents in a rabbit knee joint model for over 28 days. Rabbits implanted with the drug-eluting pads exhibited activity levels comparable to those that did not undergo surgery. These findings indicate that the hyaluronic acid-loaded, drug-eluting nanofibrous degradable pad, with its extended release of pharmaceuticals and biomolecules, may be used for the treatment of degenerative arthritis.