Overview
During this non-operative, outpatient procedure, the physician injects a pain relief medication called HYALGAN@ into the knee joint. The HYALGAN will help the knee move smoothly, reducing or relieving the pain of osteoarthritis.
Preparation
In preparation for the injection, the physician swabs the knee and administers a local anesthetic. The physician positions a device called a fluoroscope over the knee. The fluoroscope will display a moving x-ray image of the inside of the knee. This will ensure that the HYALGAN is injected into the joint space.
Injecting the Dye
The physician carefully guides a needle into the knee joint. The physician confirms the needle's placement with an injection of dye. The dye is clearly visible on the fluoroscope. If the dye pools in the soft tissue at the front of the knee, the physician adjusts the placement of the needle. When the dye successfully reaches the space inside the joint, the physician is ready to inject the HYALGAN.
Injecting the Medication
While leaving the needle in position, the physician removes the dye syringe and replaces it with a HYALGAN syringe. The physician injects the HYALGAN into the space within the knee joint. The HYALGAN will bond with the synovial fluid inside the joint. It will help cushion and lubricate the joint.
End of Procedure
When the injection is complete, the physician removes the needle and bandages the knee. HYALGAN is administered in a series of three to five injections given one week apart. Patients typically begin to feel pain relief after the third injection, and pain relief can last for up to six months. Physical therapy will enhance the effects of the medication.
© 2012 Swarm Interactive, Inc.