Name of the Procedure:

Common name(s): Hyaluronan or derivative injection Technical/medical term: Gelsyn-3 intra-articular injection, HCPCS J7328

Summary

Gelsyn-3 is a hyaluronic acid injection used to relieve knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. It is administered directly into the knee joint to provide lubrication and cushioning, which can help reduce pain and improve joint function.

Purpose

Medical Conditions:

• Osteoarthritis of the knee

Goals:

• Alleviate chronic knee pain
• Improve joint mobility and function
• Delay or reduce the need for surgical intervention

Indications

Symptoms or Conditions:

• Moderate to severe knee pain due to osteoarthritis
• Insufficient relief from conservative treatments like pain medications and physical therapy

Patient Criteria:

• Diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis
• Trial and failure of other non-surgical treatments

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• Inform the doctor of any allergies or current medications
• Avoid blood-thinning medications as advised
• Discuss any existing infections or skin conditions near the injection site
• No fasting required

Diagnostic Tests:

• X-rays or MRI to assess the extent of osteoarthritis

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The area around the knee is cleansed with antiseptic.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia might be applied to numb the area.
3. Insertion: A thin needle is inserted into the knee joint space.
4. Injection: Gelsyn-3 is carefully injected.
5. Completion: The needle is withdrawn, and the site is covered with a bandage.

Tools and Equipment:

• Antiseptic solution
• Sterile syringe and needle
• Gelsyn-3 injection solution

Anesthesia:

• Local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort.

Duration

• The procedure typically takes about 10-15 minutes per injection.

Setting

• The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a physician's office.

Personnel

• The healthcare professional administering the injection is usually a physician, often an orthopedic specialist or a rheumatologist. A nurse may assist.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Mild pain or swelling at the injection site
• Temporary increase in knee pain
• Redness or warmth at the injection site

Rare Complications:

• Infection
• Allergic reaction to the injection
• Joint stiffness or mechanical problems

Management:

• Over-the-counter pain relief
• Ice packs for swelling
• Immediate medical attention for signs of infection or severe reactions

Benefits

• Reduction in pain typically experienced within a few days to weeks
• Improved knee function and mobility
• Potential decrease in the usage of pain medications

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Rest the knee for a day or two
• Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours
• Apply ice packs if needed for discomfort

Recovery Timeline:

• Limited activity for 24-48 hours
• Gradual return to normal activities based on comfort and doctor's advice

Follow-up:

• Scheduled follow-up appointments to assess the effectiveness
• Possible additional injections as advised

Alternatives

• Physical therapy
• Oral or topical pain relievers
• Corticosteroid injections
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
• Surgery (e.g., knee arthroscopy or total knee replacement)

Pros and Cons:

• Physical Therapy: Non-invasive but may have limited pain relief.
• Medications: Easy to administer but may have systemic side effects.
• Corticosteroid Injections: Fast-acting but short-term benefits.
• Surgery: Long-term solution but involves significant recovery time and risks.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Minor discomfort from the needle
• Pressure or mild pain as the solution is injected

After the Procedure:

• Temporary increase in pain or swelling
• Localized discomfort managed with ice and mild pain relievers

Pain Management:

• Over-the-counter pain medication if needed
• Ice application to reduce swelling and discomfort