Infiltração intra-articular de Ácido hialurônico no tratamento de artrose no joelho: uma revisão integrativa

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, degenerative joint disease characterized by progressive cartilage degradation, causing pain, swelling, discomfort, and loss of mobility (PEREIRA et al., 2022). This condition significantly impacts quality of life and generates direct costs, such as treatments and surgeries, and indirect costs related to work absence and early retirement. Studies indicate an increase in the global prevalence of OA, especially in the knee, with projections for significant growth until 2050 (DOMINGUES et al., 2023). Among the treatment options, viscosupplementation with hyaluronic acid (HA) has proven effective. HA, naturally present in synovial fluid, loses its lubricating and shock-absorbing properties in OA-affected joints. Its intra-articular administration aims to restore these functions, promoting pain relief and functional improvement (LEGRÉ-BOYER, 2015). METHODOLOGY: An integrative review was employed, using articles published between 2010 and 2024, obtained from databases such as Scielo, PubMed, and LILACS. Rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, resulting in the analysis of eight relevant studies. RESULTS: The results indicate that HA provides pain relief and functional improvement, with a positive impact evidenced by scales such as VAS, WOMAC, and Lequesne. Studies showed that the isolated use of HA is effective, but combination with physical exercises or corticosteroids can accelerate the initial response. Furthermore, fractionated application regimens demonstrated greater efficacy compared to a single application. Recent research explored the association of HA with purified polynucleotides, obtaining significant improvements in pain and joint function. Other studies highlighted that a high body mass index and advanced stage of OA may limit the benefits of treatment. CONCLUSION: Viscosupplementation with HA is a safe and effective alternative in the management of knee osteoarthritis, especially when associated with complementary practices such as physical exercises. The treatment contributes to pain reduction, improved mobility, and consequently, a higher quality of life for patients.