Orthovisc FDA Approval: What Patients Need to Know Before Treatment

David Fuller

Last Updated On: June 20, 2024

Orthovisc injections, a unique and promising therapy, offer a distinct approach to managing osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms. Unlike pain relievers that provide immediate relief, Orthovisc injections are a highly effective lubricant and protective cushion in the knee joint, offering a more targeted and long-lasting solution. 

When the doctor injects Orthovisc into the knee joint, it acts as a highly effective lubricant and protective cushion. This treatment can significantly alleviate discomfort and pain, enabling patients to walk or run without hindrance and enjoy daily activities. Despite its sound effects, patients must know the downsides and other important information before treatment. 

In this article, we’ll explore more about the benefits, procedures, and considerations surrounding Orthovisc treatment to enlighten patients with crucial insights before they make informed decisions.

Key Takeaways

• The FDA’s clearance of Orthovisc is a testament to the drug’s effectiveness and safety in treating knee osteoarthritis pain. This regulatory approval provides patients with a reliable and safe course of treatment, instilling confidence in Orthovisc’s potential to manage their pain.
• Patients should be aware that Orthovisc only provides short-term relief and that continued injections are necessary to sustain the benefits of pain management.
• Although side effects are usually modest, patients should know that they could experience post-injection redness, swelling, and localized soreness.
• Before receiving treatment, you must openly discuss your medical history, expectations, and potential hazards related to Orthovisc treatment with your healthcare provider. Doing so ensures that your treatment plan aligns with your needs and circumstances.
• Patients may confidently manage their treatment journey for knee pain when they know about Orthovisc’s FDA approval, temporary nature, side effects, and the necessity of consultation.

Significance of FDA Approval for Orthovisc

Getting FDA approval takes work. Orthovisc had to pass many tests before doctors could use it. The process checks if the treatment is safe and works as it should. Many patients ask, “Does Orthovisc really work?“ To answer this question, the FDA has looked at data from studies to ensure Orthovisc helps with knee pain without causing harm.

Doctors trust products that have passed this challenging process, and patients can feel more confident about using Orthovisc for knee injections. Let’s discuss who can get this treatment and how it helps.

Indications for Orthovisc Use as Outlined by the FDA

The FDA’s indications for Orthovisc use outline approved medical conditions for which the treatment is deemed suitable. The FDA has delineated specific indications for Orthovisc injection used for addressing osteoarthritis-related knee pain. This hyaluronic acid-based treatment is FDA-approved for individuals who have failed to respond adequately to conservative measures such as physical therapy and pain medications, providing a viable option for managing knee osteoarthritis symptoms.Understanding these indications is vital for healthcare professionals to ensure appropriate patient selection and optimal treatment outcomes while adhering to regulatory guidelines and safety standards. 

Patient Eligibility Criteria

Orthovisc has gained FDA approval, ensuring it meets strict safety and efficacy standards. This confirmation makes Orthovisc a trusted choice for knee pain treatment due to osteoarthritis. To determine if patients can receive Orthovisc injections, medical professionals should review the following eligibility criteria carefully:

• Age: These injections are typically best suited for adults over 18. Younger individuals might have different treatment options that are more suitable.

• Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis in the Knee: Orthovisc targets explicitly pain associated with this condition.

• Previous Treatments: Patients should have already tried previous knee treatments that did not work. Orthovisc must not be the first choice.

• No Skin Infections or Diseases Around the Injection Site: Clean, healthy skin ensures lower risk during injection.

• No Allergies to Avian Proteins, Eggs, or Feathers: Orthovisc comes from hyaluronan derived from rooster combs.

• No History of Blood Clots or Leg Circulation Issues: These conditions complicate treatment.

• Should Have Realistic Expectations About the Treatment: Orthovisc eases pain but doesn’t cure osteoarthritis.

• Understanding Orthovisc’s Effect Onset Timeline:  The treatment provides temporary relief for up to six months. This knowledge will help manage their expectations and prevent misconceptions about the treatment’s long-term effects.

Treatment Protocols and Guidelines

After identifying who can benefit from Orthovisc, let’s learn how the treatment happens. FDA approval means there are set rules for using Orthovisc effectively.

• Check Patient’s Medical History: Ensure safety by reviewing past health issues before administering Orthovisc knee gel injections.

• Decide on the Dose: Determine the Orthovisc amount based on the patient’s condition, following FDA guidelines for optimal results.

• Schedule Injections: Plan multiple Orthovisc sessions weeks apart to maximize patient benefits.

• Prepare the Injection site: Before Orthovisc injection, clean the knee area thoroughly to prevent infections.

• Perform the Injection: For each Orthovisc knee injection, use a sterile needle and carefully place it in the joint.

• Observe Aftercare Instructions: Provide patients with advice on knee care post-Orthovisc injection, including rest and activity restrictions.

• Monitor Progress and Side Effects: Watch treatment effectiveness and check for adverse reactions to Orthovisc.

Addressing Patient Concerns and Questions about Orthovisc

Healthcare providers can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment options by providing comprehensive information and guidance about Orthovisc. Addressing potential uncertainties and clarifying doubts can help patients feel more confident and trusting in the therapeutic process they will undergo.

Expected Benefits

Understanding how Orthovisc works is just the start. The real excitement comes from its benefits. People who get knee gel injections with Orthovisc see a big difference in their pain levels.

• Reduced Pain Levels: Orthovisc gel injections alleviate knee osteoarthritis discomfort, offering notable relief.
• Enhanced Mobility: Orthovisc improves joint function by reducing stiffness, making movement more accessible and less painful.
• Decreased Reliance on Medications: Orthovisc reduces the need for other pain medications, promoting holistic pain management.
• Improved Quality of Life: Orthovisc manages pain, enhances joint function, and enables more activities and a better quality of life.
• Clear Evidence of Efficacy: The positive outcomes of the Orthovisc reassure us of its effectiveness in treating knee osteoarthritis pain.

Potential Side Effects

Orthovisc injections, like any medical treatment, can have side effects. Some patients might notice pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site. 

• Pain: This side effect occurs at the injection site, is typically mild and temporary, and resolves independently without intervention within a short period.
• Swelling: It may manifest at the injection site and is usually mild and transient, diminishing without specific treatment shortly after the procedure.
• Redness: Skin around the injection area may appear reddened temporarily, commonly resolving spontaneously within a brief period post-procedure.
• Warmth: Patients may experience localized warmth at the injection site, typically temporary and resolving without intervention shortly after the procedure.
• Rash: Rarely, patients may develop a rash at the injection site. This rash is usually mild and transient and disappears spontaneously after the procedure.

Safety Profile of Orthovisc

Orthovisc has undergone a thorough FDA approval process, showing that it meets high safety standards. Medical professionals can trust its quality and confidently suggest it to patients.

This injection helps ease pain in adults with joint issues. Regarding product safety, the reviews and studies back up Orthovisc’s reliability. Patients should discuss their health history with doctors before using Orthovisc.

This treatment helps ensure they get the proper treatment without unwanted effects. Safety comes first for patients and healthcare providers considering knee gel injections like Orthovisc.

Practical Tips and Recommendations for Patients Considering Orthovisc Treatment

For those thinking about Orthovisc treatment, getting ready for the shot and dealing with any soreness afterward is vital. Talking with your doctor about other ways to help your joints feel better is also intelligent.

Preparing for the Injection Procedure

Preparing for knee gel injections like Orthovisc is vital to a successful treatment. Patients often have questions about how to prepare for their procedure.

• Confirmed Eligibility: Ensure that Orthovisc suits you, considering factors like medical history and knee condition.
• Discuss Medications: Talk about any medicines you take. Some need to pause before getting the injection.
• Plan Orthovisc Injection Aftercare: If needed, arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure. You must move less right after.
• Wear Comfortable Clothing. Choose clothes that offer easy access to the knee area to make the process smoother for the patient and the doctor.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before your appointment unless advised otherwise.
• Eat Lightly: Something in your stomach can help prevent feeling lightheaded during or after the injection.
• Avoid Applying Skin Products: Keeping the skin clean and free from products reduces infection risk.
• Prepare Ice Packs: Have these ready at home to manage any swelling or discomfort after the injection.
• Set up a Comfortable Rest Area: Ease of access to necessities like water, snacks, and entertainment can make a recovery more comfortable.

Managing Post-Injection Discomfort

After an Orthovisc knee gel injection, patients might feel joint discomfort that usually disappears after a few days.

• Ice packs should be used for 15 minutes several times daily, with intervals of 15 minutes off, to reduce swelling and pain.
• Elevate the knee with pillows to reduce swelling, keeping it still and comfortable.
• Avoid strenuous activities like running or jumping for 48 hours post-injection. Light walks are suitable for stiffness.
• Take acetaminophen for pain relief, and consult your doctor for appropriate medication.
• Wear supportive, cushioned shoes to protect knees from impact during walks.
• Follow prescribed exercises to strengthen and improve knee flexibility.
• Monitor the knee post-injection; contact the doctor if the pain persists or worsens beyond a few days.

Incorporating Complementary Therapies for Pain Relief and Joint Function Improvement

Managing the discomfort through proper Orthovisc injection aftercare is just one step. Next, we focus on boosting recovery and enhancing joint function with complementary therapies. Here’s how adding these methods can make a big difference for patients:

• Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy helps improve joint mobility. Most therapists design exercises that strengthen the muscles around the knee.
• Acupuncture: This ancient practice can reduce pain by triggering the body’s natural painkillers. It targets specific points to relieve knee discomfort.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the knees, lessens pain, and reduces joint damage.
• Heat and Cold Therapy: Heat eases muscle tension, while cold packs reduce swelling. Alternating both can offer relief post-Orthovisc treatment.
• Supplements: Certain supplements, like glucosamine and chondroitin, support joint health and provide the building blocks for cartilage repair.
• Yoga: Gentle yoga stretches to improve flexibility and circulation. Instructors may modify the positions to meet individual needs without straining the knee.

Conclusion

With Orthovisc’s FDA approval for knee pain, physicians and patients can feel more specific about the medication’s efficacy and safety. However, before starting this therapy, people must have an open conversation with their healthcare professional about potential advantages, hazards, and medical history.

Additionally, it’s critical to treat any post-injection discomfort and prepare for the injection. Patients may benefit in the long run from adding workouts to their post-treatment regimen, as it may improve knee function even more. Taking these precautions allows knee discomfort with Orthovisc to be managed holistically, leading to the best possible results and patient satisfaction.

About: Operating since 2016, Med Supply Solutions is known for being one of the industry’s top and trusted suppliers of cosmetic and viscosupplementation products. With competitive pricing, they can support medical practices by boosting their profitability and maximizing their resources. Moreover, they provide a dedicated VIP sales agent for every client to ensure a smooth and comfortable shopping experience, allowing you to enjoy quality products easily at a great price.

FAQs

1. What is Orthovisc, and why do doctors use it for knee injections?

Orthovisc is a knee gel injection for arthritis pain. Doctors inject it directly into the knee.

2. Has the FDA approved Orthovisc?

Orthovisc has FDA approval, signifying its safety and efficacy for knee arthritis pain treatment.

3. What should I expect after getting an Orthovisc injection?

Patients need to rest after an Orthovisc injection. Doctors will provide detailed care instructions.

4. How does Orthovisc work in my body?

Orthovisc provides cushioning and lubrication for joints, reducing pain and improving knee mobility.

References

Li X, Shah A, Franklin P, Merolli R, Bradley J, Busconi B. Arthroscopic debridement of the osteoarthritic knee combined with hyaluronic acid (Orthovisc®) treatment: A case series and review of the literature. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research. 2008;3(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/1749-799x-3-43

Exploring the Efficacy of an Orthovisc Injection in Knee Joint Pain Management. www.linkedin.com. Accessed April 2, 2024. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/exploring-efficacy-orthovisc-injection-knee-joint-pain-management/?trk=public_post_main-feed-card_feed-article-content

Using Orthovisc in Viscosupplementation. Verywell Health. Accessed April 2, 2024. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-orthovisc-190164