Hyaluronic acid injections
have two common uses--for osteoarthritis of the knee and for facial cosmetic surgery. A gel-like substance, hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in soft connective tissue, cartilage, joint fluid, and in skin tissue. Because of this, it is very safe, and allergies to it are extremely rare. The injections use a synthetic form.
Function
Normal knee joints contain synovial fluid consisting of hyaluronic acid and lubricin, which provides cushioning. One effect of osteoarthritis is the fluid losing lubrication ability. Hyaluronic acid injections help joints to work better again.
Osteoarthrits Treatment Brands
The process for treating knees is called viscosupplementation. Hyalgan, Synvisc and Supartz are brand names of hyaluronic acid injections for the knees.
Success Rate
The injections do not help everyone with osteoarthritis of the knee, but many people experience pain relief for 6 months to 1 year. Many health insurance companies pay for the treatment.
Cosmetic Use
In cosmetic facial treatment, tiny amounts of hyaluronic acid are injected with very small needles. The gel fills in wrinkles and lines, and it adds moisture and lubrication.
Cosmetic Brands
Some brand names of the cosmetic hyaluronic acid are Restylane, Hylaform and Perlane. The cosmetic version also is a synthetic form of the substance.
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