Objective: The aim of this consensus statement on viscosupplementation is to serve as a reference document based on relevant literature and clinical experience in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis using an intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid, covering key aspects such as clinical indications, effectiveness, and tolerability. Methods: A multidisciplinary panel including two sports medicine physicians, six orthopedists, four physiatrists, and two rheumatologists were selected based on their clinical and academic experience of viscosupplementation. Sixteen statements were prepared and discussed, after which a vote was held. Each member of the panel gave a score between 0 and 10 on a Likert scale, specifying their level of agreement with the statement. Results: The panel reached a consensus on several issues. Specifically, the panel agreed that the best indication is for mild to moderate knee arthrosis; prior or concomitant use of intraarticular triamcinolone hexacetonide may optimize the effect of hyaluronic acid; viscosupplementation should not be performed as an isolated procedure but in conjunction with other rehabilitative and pharmacological measures; viscosupplementation has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and chondroprotective effects; and viscosupplementation is cost-effective. Conclusion: This consensus statement provides clear information and guidance for both individuals and payers. Level of evidence V, Consensus statement.
Objective: The Brazilian Consensus on Hip Viscosupplementation aims to generate a referential and consensual source from the theoretical knowledge and clinical experience of specialists in the field. Methods: A multidisciplinary panel was formed with 15 specialists (sports medicine, orthopedists, physiatrists and rheumatologists), based on clinical and academic experience in the use of viscosupplementation of the hip. 12 statements were prepared, discussed and voted. Each panelist gave a value between 0 and 10 on a Likert scale, specifying their level of agreement with the statement. Results: The panel reached a consensus on several aspects of viscosupplementation of the hip, with emphasis on the following statements: best indication is for mild to moderate hip arthrosis; it may be indicated in severe osteoarthritis; results may vary according to the characteristics of the viscosupplement used; Viscosupplementation should not be performed as an isolated procedure, but in conjunction with other rehabilitation and pharmacological measures; best injection technique should be based on anatomical references coupled with imaging guidance; it is a cost-effective procedure. Conclusion: Viscosupplementation is a safe and effective therapy for hip osteoarthritis, even in severe cases. Guided injection is recommended. Level of Evidence V, Expert Opinion.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.