Hyaluronic acid: a suitable option for hip osteoarthritis in young patients

European review for medical and pharmacological sciences, Nov-Dec 2009
Hip osteoarthritis in young adults is a notable problem which, although less common than in older age groups, restricts social and occupational activity and prospects. The treatment options are relatively limited and surgical treatment requires periodic revision procedures, while long-term administration of anti-inflammatory drugs gives rise to adverse effects. Hyaluronic acid given as an intra-articular injection is emerging as an alternative treatment that relieves pain, improves activity and delays surgery. The aim of this study was to examine the use of hyaluronic acid in hip osteoarthritis in the young. 78 young patients were studied and it was shown that intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid is a safe method and can provide significant pain relief and improvement in function. Larger controlled studies are nevertheless needed in order to establish new treatment strategies and clinical factors for predicting the response to treatment.