Hyaluronic acid (HA) treatment

Hyaluronic acid (HA) treatment, also known as viscosupplementation, is a non-surgical procedure commonly performed by our orthopedic surgeons to alleviate symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. Here is a description of a typical hyaluronic acid treatment of a knee joint:

1. Patient Evaluation: The orthopedic surgeon begins by evaluating the patient’s medical history, conducting a physical examination, and reviewing any previous imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs. This assessment helps determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for hyaluronic acid treatment.
2. Preparing the Patient: Before the procedure, the patient’s knee area is cleaned and sterilized. Local anesthesia may be administered to numb the area and reduce any potential discomfort during the injection.
3. Synovial Fluid Removal (Optional): In some cases, the orthopedic surgeon may aspirate or remove a small amount of synovial fluid from the knee joint. This step can help alleviate pain and swelling in the joint, making it easier to inject the hyaluronic acid solution.
4. Injection Procedure: Using a sterile syringe and needle, the surgeon carefully injects the hyaluronic acid solution directly into the knee joint. The injection is typically guided by ultrasound or fluoroscopy to ensure accurate placement. The specific dosage and number of injections may vary depending on the product being used and the individual patient’s needs.
5. Post-Treatment Care: After the injection, the patient may be advised to rest for a short period and avoid any strenuous activities for a day or two. The surgeon may also recommend applying ice packs to the treated area to reduce swelling and discomfort.
6. Follow-Up Visits: The orthopedic surgeon typically schedules follow-up visits to monitor the patient’s progress. These visits allow for further evaluation of pain relief, joint function improvement, and overall response to the treatment. Additional hyaluronic acid injections may be administered if deemed necessary.

Hyaluronic acid treatments aim to supplement the natural synovial fluid in the knee joint, which helps lubricate and cushion the joint surfaces. The injected hyaluronic acid acts as a lubricant and provides temporary relief from pain and stiffness associated with knee osteoarthritis. It can also potentially slow down the progression of joint degeneration.

It’s important to note that the specific details of a hyaluronic acid treatment may vary depending on the surgeon’s preferences, the patient’s condition, and the specific product being used. Therefore, it is essential to consult with our orthopedic surgeon who can provide personalized guidance and treatment based on an individual’s specific needs.