EFFICACY AND CLINICAL IMPACT OF HYALURONIC ACID VISCOSUPPLEMENTATION IN KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a fundamental polysaccharide of the articular extracellular matrix, essential for lubrication and shock absorption in the knee. In patients with osteoarthritis (OA), there is a critical reduction in the concentration and molecular weight of this compound. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and clinical effects of viscosupplementation treatment with HA in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Methodology: This is a descriptive literature review with a qualitative approach. Eleven articles were selected from the PubMed database, published between 2018 and 2023, using specific descriptors such as "viscosupplementation" and "hyaluronic acid". Results: The analyzed data confirm that viscosupplementation is effective in suppressing inflammatory pathways and stimulating the production of endogenous HA. Significant improvements were observed in pain scores, joint stiffness, and physical performance. Conclusion: The treatment demonstrates clinical efficacy and safety, contributing to the patient's quality of life. However, it should be noted that this technique should preferably be used in conjunction with other therapeutic modalities, including surgical intervention when necessary, and should not serve as a complete substitute for it.