OSTENIL PLUS Injections (Hyaluronic Acid)

What is Ostenil Plus?

• Ostenil Plus is a solution containing hyaluronic acid that is used in the treatment for osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance and an important component of synovial fluid which fills synovial joints, such as the knee, hip, and shoulder. It contributes to joint lubrication, has a shock absorbent effect, and helps eliminate harmful cells and substances that contribute to the breakdown of cartilage.  
  
  Hyaluronic acid is continuously broken down and replaced within the body and dysregulation of this process leads to cartilage wear and osteoarthritis.  
  
  Ostenil Plus contains a pure hyaluronic acid. The solution is injected into synovial joints to help restore the balance between breakdown and production of hyaluronic acid helping to restore joint function and reduce pain, stiffness and swelling.
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What can Ostenil Plus be used for?

• There is evidence showing efficacy for knee osteoarthritis, but it is also licensed for use in shoulder and hip osteoarthritis. You may not notice an immediate effect after the injection but will gradually experience an improvement in pain and stiffness of that joint,which is likely to last several months.

Is it safe to have an Ostenil Plus joint injection?

• Yes. Ostenil Plus injections are relatively safe with no reported serious side effects. They contain no animal proteins, so the risk of an allergic reaction is very low. Ostenil Plus injections can also be safely repeated when its effect wears off.
  
  Ultrasound guidance is used throughout the procedure to minimise risk. The injection is also performed in an aseptic manner using sterile equipment.  
  
  However, there is a small risk of infection(approximately 1 in 10, 000) following an injection. If you experience symptoms such as unexpected pain, warmth or redness around the area or develop a temperature, you should immediately consult your GP or attend A&E and explain that you have recently had an injection, as this could potentially be serious. 
  
  Other side effects/risks related to the procedure itself include:
• Minor bruising at site of injection
• Pain and swelling post-procedure
• Tendon or nerve damage
• No response to treatment
• Worsening of symptoms

Reasons you should not have an Ostenil Plus joint injection?

• If you have an active infection at or near the site of injection.
• If you are allergic to local anaesthetic.
• If you have an inflammatory joint disease.
  
• If you are pregnant.
  
• Before the procedure the radiology consultant will have a clinical discussion with you about the benefits vs risks of the injection, any contra-indications, and will then ask you to sign the informed consent form if you are happy to proceed.

Post Procedure Care

• The area may start to feel uncomfortable after the local anaesthetic wears off. We advise rest of the affected area for 48 hours. We advise arranging a friend or close family member to accompany you in clinic or drive you home afterwards.