arthritis foundation

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and a top cause of disability. Also, many people who injure their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), are at higher risk of developing arthritis.  In an attempt to learn more about osteoarthritis prevention and treatment, Mayo Clinic is joining an Arthritis Foundation-funded study to analyze damaged cartilage before osteoarthritis sets in. Researchers will use biomarkers and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to study the joint surface cartilage of patients who have just torn their ACL. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6x_zGpHtD0Y&hd=1 Study co-investigator Michael Stuart, M.D., vice-chair of orthopedic surgery and co-director of the Sports Medicine Center, says, “Many patients, maybe up to one-half, who tear their anterior cruciate ligament are at risk for developing post-traumatic or after-injury arthritis over time. This group of patients affords an opportunity for us to study injured articular cartilage using biomarkers and MRI, then hopefully apply new treatment strategies that can prevent arthritis in the future.” Journalists: Sound bites with Dr. Stuart are available in the downloads.