Knee
Ultrasound-guided injections
Hyaluronic acid placed with ultrasound precision inside the joint.
How it is performed
Hyaluronic acid acts as a lubricant and shock absorber for the joint, improving the gliding of the surfaces and reducing weight-bearing pain. Ultrasound allows verification that the needle has actually entered the joint space, drainage of any effusion, and deposition of the medication exactly where needed. This is an ultrasound-guided procedure under local anaesthesia, repeatable according to an agreed schedule.
Who it is for
- Mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis
- Pain and stiffness on weight-bearing and with first steps
- Need to delay or avoid repeated use of corticosteroids
Recovery
No downtime: you can walk immediately, avoiding intense sport for 48 hours. Benefit develops over the following weeks and can last several months.
Conditions treated in this area: knee osteoarthritis (gonarthrosis), persistent pain after knee replacement, chronic tendinopathies, refractory anteromedial pain.
Scientific evidence
Network meta-analyses comparing different intra-articular injections in knee osteoarthritis show that hyaluronic acid provides a more lasting benefit on pain and function than corticosteroid at follow-up from 6 months onward, with a good safety profile.
References on PubMed
- Platelet-Rich Plasma, Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate, and Hyaluronic Acid Injections Outperform Corticosteroids in Pain and Function Scores at a Minimum of 6 Months: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis
Jawanda H, Khan ZA, et al. — Arthroscopy, 2024 · PMID 38331363
- Efficacy and safety of corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid, and PRP and combination therapy for knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Qiao X, Yan L, et al. — BMC Musculoskelet Disord, 2023 · PMID 38037038
Published data describe average results in groups of patients and are not a prediction of an individual outcome. The indication for treatment must always be assessed during a consultation.
Risks, costs and opinions
The three questions patients ask most often before deciding, with clear answers.
What are the risks of ultrasound-guided injections?
It is an outpatient procedure performed with a thin needle under local anaesthesia and continuous ultrasound guidance, which makes it possible to see the needle, the target and the structures to avoid in real time. The most common issues are transient: pain or swelling for 24-48 hours, a small bruise. Joint infection is a rare event, prevented by sterile technique. In treatments with cortisone, facial flushing or a temporary rise in blood sugar may occur in diabetic patients. Personal risks and contraindications are assessed during the consultation.
How much does the ultrasound-guided injections cost?
The cost depends on the setting in which the procedure is performed: some treatments are available through the National Health Service or under agreement, others privately or through insurance. The quote is given clearly before scheduling the treatment, and includes the assessment, the procedure and the planned follow-up. During the consultation I tell you which pathway is available in your case: you do not have to decide before knowing the cost.
Does it really work? What patients and the literature say
The most frequent questions are "how long does the benefit last?" and "can I repeat it?". The answer depends on the diagnosis and the stage: some injections resolve the painful episode, others serve to open a window in which rehabilitation becomes effective. Experiences read in forums concern cases different from yours. During the consultation we review your imaging and I tell you frankly what to expect, how many sessions may be needed and when another approach is better.
Want to know if it is right for you?
At the first consultation we review your clinical history and previous imaging together.