What is hyaluronic acid?

What is hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally present in our bodies. It is found abundantly in the extracellular matrix (all tissues are made up of matrix and cells; the extracellular matrix is any part of a tissue that is not made up of cells) of embryonic tissues, adult soft tissues, and our joints.

What are the composition and properties of hyaluronic acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a long polysaccharide composed of repeating disaccharides of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetylglucosamine. The chemical properties of hyaluronic acid give it a highly hydrophilic character (attracts water) and a high molecular weight, forming a viscous network. These properties give hyaluronic acid the ability to:

• Hydrate the extracellular matrix
• Regulate tissue homeostasis (a state of balance between all the body's systems necessary for survival and proper function)
• Withstand compressive forces

Is hyaluronic acid treatment safe?

Hyaluronic acid has a very high safety profile due to its biocompatibility (it does not cause rejection) and biodegradability (it degrades and disappears after a few months), non-inflammatory, non-toxic, and non-immunogenic behavior (it does not generate an inflammatory or immunological response).

Are all hyaluronic acids the same?

There are hyaluronic acid molecules of different molecular weights. It has been proven that their different molecular weights are related to their different, and sometimes opposing, biological functions. Thus, high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (greater than 1000 KDa) has anti-inflammatory properties that control the recruitment of inflammatory cells and prevent the formation of blood vessels (antiangiogenesis). In contrast, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid is a marker of tissue distress, has pro-inflammatory properties, promotes the formation of blood vessels (angiogenesis), and contributes to tissue and wound healing.

What are the uses of hyaluronic acid in traumatology?

Treatment of osteoarthritis:

Hyaluronic acid is frequently used to relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease that affects the joints. It is administered through intra-articular injections to lubricate and cushion the affected joints, thereby reducing pain and improving mobility.

Repair of cartilage injuries:

Hyaluronic acid is used in some surgical procedures to repair cartilage injuries. It can be used as a filler or as part of cartilage implants, contributing to the regeneration and repair of damaged cartilage structures.

Treatment of ligament injuries:

Hyaluronic acid can be used for knee ligament injuries as part of regenerative therapies. These therapies may involve hyaluronic acid injections to stimulate the repair and regeneration of damaged tissue.

Shoulder surgery:

Hyaluronic acid can be used during shoulder surgery as part of tissue and cartilage repair techniques. It helps lubricate the joint and can facilitate postoperative recovery and rehabilitation.

Dr. Jordi Jiménez performs ultrasound-guided hyaluronic acid injections in Palma de Mallorca. Make an appointment with Dr. Jordi Jiménez. He will see you in the center of Palma de Mallorca and help you regain your quality of life.