Viscosupplementation (Hyaluronan or Hyaluronic Acid)

Reviews of the published scientific evidence report moderate to large effects on pain relief and improved function for up to six months, although the injections are not effective for everyone. For those patients that notice an improvement in symptoms, research reflects that the peak symptom relief typically occurs between five and thirteen weeks post-injection.

It has been proposed that viscosupplementation is most effective if the arthritis is in its early stages (mild to moderate), but more research is needed to support this and to determine the long-term effects.

An injection of viscosupplementation has never been shown to cure arthritis, retard its progression, or re-grow articular cartilage.

About

This treatment involves a gel-like fluid called Hyaluronic Acid (HA) being injected into your affected knee. Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the synovial fluid around joints. It acts as a lubricant to enable bones to move smoothly over each other and as a shock absorber for joint loads.

With age and the onset of OA, the HA molecules in the knee can break down, becoming too thin to lubricate the knee properly or to provide normal levels of shock-absorption. The theory is that adding new Hyaluronic Acid to the arthritic joint will help with movement and reduce pain.

Several preparations of HA are now commercially available; the most commonly used in Australia are Synvisc One, Orthoartz and Durolane. At Jointli we use Durolane for our injections. Each preparation has different qualities. The ones worth paying attention to from a scientific standpoint are the viscosity (thickness) of the fluid and the elasticity and molecular weight of the acid chains. Another important difference between the brands is how many injections they recommend for effective treatment.

The effects seem to differ widely for patients. Some notice pain and function improvement within days, others take several weeks, and some people receive no benefit at all. Those who do get pain relief usually report it lasting from three to six months, after which re-injection is an option.

Be Aware

Some people may notice a reaction close to the injection site, such as pain, redness, warmth, slight swelling or stiffness immediately after the injection. These symptoms generally do not last longer than 48 hours. We recommend applying an ice pack to the knee and take some simple pain relief to ease the discomfort.

Occasionally, people report a headache, muscle pain, nausea, sore throat and flu-like symptoms. If these occur and do not resolve within 24 hours, we recommend you consult your doctor.

There are some rare side effects that are more serious, and if experienced, you should contact your doctor immediately. They include:

• Allergy – rashes, hives, itching, flushing and swelling of the face, tongue or throat, chest tightness and shortness of breath.
• Severe inflammation of the joint, a large increase in pain and swelling in your knee, or your knee becomes red and hot. These signs may indicate an infection in the joint.

Pricing

PRICING & FEES

The Durolane injection itself is $669.  There is nothing rebated from medicare or from your private health fund for the injection.

The fee for the consultation with Chloe is $182 (Item number 82215).  Medicare will refund $51.35 of this amount.

In total, you will be charged $851.

What if I am getting both knee’s injected?

You will pay for one consultation and two injections, a total of $1520.

Are the injections the same price if I come back for a second and third?

Yes, all injections are the same price