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Updated: Jul 11, 2026
Tissue Collection and RNA Extraction from the Human Osteoarthritic Knee Joint
Published on: July 22, 2021
[Socioeconomic relevance of osteoarthritis in Germany]
H Merx1, K E Dreinhöfer, K-P Günther
1Kreishaus Waiblingen, Landratsamt Rems-Murr-Kreis, Waiblingen.
Aim Of Study:
The aim of this study was to summarise the impact of medical care and related costs due to the treatment of osteoarthritis in Germany.
Material And Methods:
Data from different health care institutions, government authorities and public health insurances for the year 2002 were analysed. Amount and cost of acute and rehabilitation treatments (in-patient as well as out-patient), sickness leave and early retirement related to osteoarthritis were estimated.
Results:
Advanced hip and knee osteoarthritis have a high socioeconomic impact in Germany. The number of people affected is growing, as is the overall incidence of joint replacement, especially knee arthroplasties and the percentage of in-patient rehabilitation for osteoarthritis.
Conclusion:
Our study confirms that the direct and indirect costs attributable to osteoarthritis are substantial and the resulting socioeconomic burden is significant. Since age is a major risk factor for osteoarthritis, the demographic changes will lead to an increased need for medical treatment of osteoarthritis patients in the future.
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