Clinical Importance and Application of Hyaluronic Acid.
- Author:
Jeung Tak SUH
1
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, College of Medicine, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea. jtsuh@pusan.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
osteoarthritis;
treatment;
hyaluronic acid
- MeSH:
Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal;
Humans;
Hyaluronic Acid*;
Injections, Intra-Articular;
Life Style;
Osteoarthritis;
Osteoarthritis, Knee;
Synovial Fluid;
Viscosupplementation;
Viscosupplements
- From:Journal of the Korean Academy of Family Medicine
2002;23(9):1071-1079
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Osteoarthritis is a common but often difficult problem to manage. Nonsurgical management, consisting of lifestyle modification, physical therapy and pharmacologic therapy (e.g., analgesics, anti-inflammatory medications), is often ineffective or leaves residual symptoms. Viscosupplementation is a newly available option for patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis that involves a series of intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid. The exact mechanism of action is unclear, although increasing the viscoelasticity of the synovial fluid appears to play a role. The exact indications for viscosupplementation are still evolving, but it currently can be considered for use in patients who have significant residual symptoms despite traditional nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic treatments. In addition, patients who are intolerant of traditional treatments (e.g., gastrointestinal problems related to anti-inflammatory medications) can be considered for these injections.
