Viscosupplementation

Viscosupplementation is a medical procedure in which hyaluronic acid is injected into a joint. Hyaluronic acid helps alleviate pain, improve joint function and delay joint damage.

Hyaluronic acid is a key component of the joint fluid called the synovial fluid. Synovial fluid in joints has several functions, including serving as a lubricant – much like oil is used to lubricate parts in a machine, as a nutrient carrier for the cartilage and as a shock absorber.

Joints affected by osteoarthritis typically have a lower concentration of hyaluronic acid in the synovial fluid than healthy joints, and thus less protection against friction and impact. This leads to progressive damage of the articular cartilage and the underlying bone as well as progressive functional limitation with pain and joint stiffness.

Viscosupplementation with intra-articular hyaluronic acid is well-established as a treatment option for knee Osteoarthritis, but it can also be applied to other synovial joints such as the hip, shoulder and ankle.

References

1. Hatz H.: Lokale intraartikuläre Diagnostik und Therapie. Synovia-Analyse und Injektionstechniken der Gelenke. 2. Auflage. UNI-MED 2005.
2. Kesson M., Atkins E., Davies I.: Injektionen in Gelenke, Sehnen und Muskel. Praktische Injektionstechnik und Indikationen. 1. Auflage. Huber 2006.