J Korean Acad Fam Med.  2002 Sep;23(9):1071-1079.

Clinical Importance and Application of Hyaluronic Acid

• Suh JT

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.

Keyword

osteoarthritis; treatment; hyaluronic acid

MeSH Terms

Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
Humans
Hyaluronic Acid*
Injections, Intra-Articular
Life Style
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, Knee
Synovial Fluid
Viscosupplementation
Viscosupplements
Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
Hyaluronic Acid
Viscosupplements