Study Summary

One hundred thirty-two patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (KOA) were randomized to receive a single intra-articular injection of mannitol-combined hyaluronan or saline placebo. The primary outcome of interest was change in visual analog scale (VAS) pain score at 6 months. Secondary outcomes included the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) scores (pain, stiffness, function, total), Lequesne index, single-leg stance, ultrasound cartilage and muscle thickness, and adverse events. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Overall, the results of the study revealed that both groups experienced significant improvements in VAS pain, with no significant between-group difference. The treatment group demonstrated greater improvements in WOMAC pain, function, and total scores. These findings suggest that although the intervention did not outperform placebo for pain reduction, it may provide functional benefits in KOA.