This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of Artcure Diffusional Transdermal Patch treatment on pain and functional status in patients with cervical disc herniation. A total of 48 patients (15 males, 33 females; mean age 48 years; range 20 to 60 years) who were diagnosed with cervical disc herniation were included in this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Participants were randomized into 2 groups. Artcure Transdermal Patch was implemented in the 1st Group, and a placebo transdermal patch was given to the 2nd Group. Artcure and placebo patches were applied once to both patient groups, remaining for 24 hours as was recommended in their usages. All individuals were examined at the onset, in the 4th week, and the 12th week. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used to evaluate pain, neuropathic pain intensity was measured using the Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs Scales (LANSS), and the functional level was measured by the Neck Pain and Disability Scale (NPDS). It was determined that the pain level decreased, neuropathic symptoms reduced, and functional level improved compared to initial parameters in the diffusional transdermal patch group. There were significant differences among the groups in the 4th and 12th weeks concerning pain, neuropathic symptoms, and functional status, and it was also determined that this difference was conspicuous in the transdermal diffusional patch group. Based on these data, Artcure Diffusional Patch may be an alternative for conservative treatment of patients with cervical disc herniation.
Key words: Cervical disc herniation, diffusional transdermal patch, artcure, neuropathic symptoms
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