[Viscosity of synovial fluid and possible artificial lubricants (author's transl)]

The viscosity of "normal" post mortem synovial fluid, and synovial fluid samples of knee joints affected by various joint diseases (inflammatory and non inflammatory) was investigated and compared with flow curves of Hyaluronic acid and Polyacrylamide solutions. The viscoelastic behaviours of synovial fluid seems to be of great importance for the lubrication mechanism of the joints. Differing results of the viscoelastic properties could be determined in different joint diseases. As a result of these changes the lubrication mechanism is impaired and this leads to cartilage wear. Solutions of Polyacrylamide and Hyaluronic acid have been investigated as model-substances, the former showing rheological properties similar to normal synovial fluid. Their application as an artificial lubricant has been investigated.