Characteristics

Sodium hyaluronate is a physiological substance that is widely distributed in the extracellular matrix of connective tissues in both animals and man. For example, it is present in the vitreous and aqueous humor of the eye, the synovialfluid, the skin and the umbilical cord. Sodium hyaluronates prepared from various human and animal tissues are not chemically different from each other.

Healon is a specific fraction of sodium hyaluronate developed as an ophthalmo-surgical aid for use in anterior segment and vitreous procedures. It is specific in that:

1. It has a high molecular weight.

2. It is reported to be nonantigenic ^{1, 6}

3. It does not cause inflammatory ² or foreign body reactions.

4. It has a high viscosity.

Furthermore, the 1% solution of Healon (sodium hyaluronate) is transparent, is reported to remain in the anterior chamber for less than 6 days³ and protects corneal endothelial cells^{4, 5} and other ocular structures. Healon (sodium hyaluronate) does not interfere with epithelialization and normal wound healing.

Last reviewed on RxList: 12/8/2004
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.