ABSTRACT
For the past 60 years intraarticular infiltrations have been performed with variable results. However, they have improved with time as a result of the innovations seen in the techniques and the glucocorticoids used, according to reports by several authors. We report the experience and results obtained in 10 years in 793 patients applying 5 mg of betamethasone dipropionate and 2 mg of betamethasone sodium phosphate (Diprospan). This was a retrospective, therapeutic and cross-sectional study. Betamethasone was combined with 1 ml of 2% plain lidocaine and 1 ml of bupivacaine or ropivacaine. Infiltrations were used to treat intraarticular conditions, post-traumatic acute inflammatory conditions and degenerative intraarticular conditions of the knee and shoulder. In the soft tissues they were used to treat bursitis, entrapment syndromes, epicondylitis, plantar fasciitis and sprains. Ninety-two percent had an improved clinical picture; it was possible to avoid surgery for several conditions. The conclusion is that infiltrations with betamethasone, both intraarticular and in periarticular structures, are fully justified in orthopedics. If applied properly, they are safe and effective.
