effects of gallium nitrate percutaneous applications in patients with knee arthritis

In this study, 35 patients with knee arthritis were evaluated, of whom 18 were treated with gallium nitrate and 17 with saline solution by means of the percutaneous application on the joint surface. The patients were evaluated according to the protocol specially prepared for this study by the research group. No allergic or other adverse reactions were observed during the applications or later. With regard to the assessment of joint pain and the dynamics of physical capabilities, the Lysholm scale was shown to be an adequate statistical tool. A comparison was made among the data obtained at the starting point and those recorded each month during the four consecutive months. It was shown that at all moments after treatment the group of patients treated with gallium nitrate presented gains in quality of life significantly higher than those in the group of patients treated with saline solution. The participants perceived the improvement of their symptoms in terms of pain, the reduction of phlogistic signs and the recovery of general well-being. Earnings perceived by participants in quality of life remained constant during subsequent evaluations, demonstrating a clinically long lasting effect with the use of gallium nitrate.