Introduction and Aims: To evaluate within a retrospective naturalistic setting, the efficacy and the tolerance of intra-articular viscosupplementation of hyaluronic acid (HA) (Suplasyn®, Bioniche Life Sciences Inc.) for the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Method: A cross-sectional and retrospective cohort analysis was performed on a database of more than 53,000 patients in 35 family practice clinics in southwestern Ontario. Data (prevalence of osteoarthritis, incidence of affected joints, treatment co-morbidities, pharmacoeconomic parameters…) was downloaded quarterly to the central laboratory. Success factors were examined in terms of co-morbity/BMI/age. Responders were evaluated with Global Assessment as well as percentage of decrease in pain and percentage of increase in mobility with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Comparison with other products (chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine sulfate) in the same indication was done in terms of efficacy and safety.

Results: Based on the preliminary findings on 1611 intra-articular injections in 537 patients, HA was well tolerated and significantly reduced the pain and OA symptoms of the patient treated. The patient’s walking and rest VAS compared with baseline were significantly improved. The patient’s pain VAS comparing standard of care and other products for the same indication versus those treated with intra-articular administration of HA would determine the positive responders.

Conclusion: Improvement in pain control and function were observed as a result of intra-articular injections of HA. This represents an alternative therapy to the existent usual care. Long-term follow-up and additional case studies, which will be afforded by the above-mentioned database, will be invaluable.