Randomized prospective study evaluating addition of corticoid to viscosupplementation: three months of follow-up

OBJECTIVE: To assess if the initial results of viscosupplementation are improved by the addition of corticosteroid. DESIGN: We evaluated 104 patients receiving usual care for knee osteoarthritis at the Universidade de São Paulo Medical Center. Patients were randomized to receive either a single intra-articular injection of 6 mL of Hylan GF-20 (Group 1) or a single intra-articular injection of 6 mL of Hylan GF-20 plus 1 mL (20 mg) of Triamcinolone Hexacetonide (Group 2). VAS, WOMAC and Lequesne questionnaires were applied at weeks zero (prior the injection), and after one, four, and 12 weeks. RESULTS: The baseline measurements of the two groups with 52 patients each were not statistically different. At week one, WOMAC and VAS showed significantly better results for Group 2 compared to Group 1 (p < 0,05). At week four the scores did not show a statistically significant differences. The groups showed similar results at week 12. CONCLUSION: The addition of Triamcinolone Hexacetonide improves the short term symptom/functional scores of viscosupplementation.