Viscosupplementation (hyaluronans) in the treatment of ankle osteoarthritis.

This pilot study was undertaken to gather preliminary data on the efficacy and safety of viscosupplementation with sodium hyaluronate versus phosphate-buffered saline control for pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA) of the ankle. Results suggest that five weekly intra-articular injections of sodium hyaluronate in patients who have OA of the ankle are well tolerated, can provide sustained relief of pain, and improve ankle function. These findings are consistent with previously published studies using intra-articular injections of sodium hyaluronate in other articular joints but require confirmation in a large, randomized, saline-controlled study. If confirmed, these findings would provide a valuable nonoperative treatment option for patients who have OA of the ankle.