HYALGAN INJECTION PROCEDURE

Hyalgan injections are given as a series of 5 injections. Each injection is given once a week. Although the procedure may vary from medical provider to medical provider, the following is a general description of the injection technique. The technique presented should not be considered to be the only manner in which a joint may be injected. In the following series, the left knee is being injected from the lateral side.

STEP 1: EXAMINE THE KNEE

Initially, the knee is examined. The position of the patella is determined, as well as the site of the injection. (Click HERE for a video of the pertinent knee exam (645 KB avi file).)

STEP 2: PREP THE KNEE

After determining the injection site, the area is cleaned with a sterile solution. In the video, this is a Betadine solution, although alcohol may also be used. (Click or HERE for a for a video of the sterile preparation prior to injection (736 KB avi file).)

STEP 3: LOCAL ANESHESIA

After sterile prep of the injection site, an injection of local anestheia may be given (for example: Xylocaine), or an ethyl chloride spray may be used to numb the skin. (Click HERE for a video of the local anesthesia (846 KB avi file).)

STEP 4: ASPIRATE THE EXISTING FLUID (IF NECESSARY)

Next, a needle is inserted into the knee at the site of the local anesthesia. If there is any existing fluid within the joint, it is withdrawn (aspirated). (Click HERE for a video of the fluid aspiration from the knee (423 KB avi file).)

STEP 5: INJECT THE HYALGAN

If the knee is not swollen, then steps 4 and 5 may be combined. In other words, a needle is inserted into the joint at the site of the local anesthesia, and the Hyalgan is injected. If fluid has been aspirated, then the needle is left in place, and the syringe is disconnected. The syringe containing the Hyalgan is then connected to the needle, and the medication injected. (Click HERE for a video of the Hyalgan injection (680 KB avi file).)

STEP 6: CLEAN SITE AND APPLY BAND-AID

Following this, the Betadine is removed from the skin, a band-aid applied, and the procedure is completed. (Click HERE for a video of the finish of the procedure (396 KB avi file).)

THIS MATERIAL DOES NOT CONSTITUTE MEDICAL ADVICE. IT IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE CONSULT A PHYSICIAN FOR SPECIFIC TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS.

THE CENTER FOR ORTHOPAEDICS AND SPORTS MEDICINE 1211 JOHNSON FERRY RD.; MARIETTA, GA., 30068

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