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Viscosupplementation
WHAT IS IT USED FOR?
The principle involves injecting a viscous substance, rich in hyaluronic acid, into a painful joint. Hyaluronic acid is one of the components of joint fluid, the normal function of which is to lubricate the cartilage and protect it from bumps. In osteoarthritis, this fluid deteriorates in quality and quantity: the joint cartilage is thus less lubricated and far more vulnerable to friction and bumps.
By supplying hyaluronic acid, viscosupplementation enables cushioning bumps, reducing lesions on the cartilage and thus restoring joint mobility.
By supplying hyaluronic acid, viscosupplementation enables cushioning bumps, reducing lesions on the cartilage and thus restoring joint mobility.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
At present this procedure is only used on knees. The injection of a synthetic hyaluronic substance must be carried out in the same way as for any intra-articular injection with strict sanitization rules and sterile disposable equipment.
The treatment generally consists of three to five injections at weekly intervals.
This technique gives good results on both the pain and mobility. Its effectiveness can generally be felt after a few days and lasts from between 8 months to one year.
As a rule it is reserved for people suffering from moderate osteoarthritis of the knee in whom the cartilage is not yet severely damaged or in people who are more seriously affected by osteoarthritis and have rejected surgery.
Studies are currently in progress to demonstrate a potential slowing down in the progression of osteoarthritis lesions using this product.
The treatment generally consists of three to five injections at weekly intervals.
This technique gives good results on both the pain and mobility. Its effectiveness can generally be felt after a few days and lasts from between 8 months to one year.
As a rule it is reserved for people suffering from moderate osteoarthritis of the knee in whom the cartilage is not yet severely damaged or in people who are more seriously affected by osteoarthritis and have rejected surgery.
Studies are currently in progress to demonstrate a potential slowing down in the progression of osteoarthritis lesions using this product.
WHAT PRECAUTIONS NEED TO BE TAKEN?
In general, the injection is well-tolerated. During the hours following the injection there may be some warmth, redness and pain in the joint that has been treated. But these signs disappear within a few hours. However, if such signs appear after 48 you should immediately contact your doctor to rule out a potential infection.
