Intralesional Injection doctors in India

Introduction

An intralesional injection is a medical technique where medication is injected directly into a lesion, that is, the affected area of skin, scar, joint, or soft tissue. Instead of giving medicine into a muscle or vein, the drug is placed right at the site of the problem. This helps the medicine work faster and more effectively on the issue that needs attention. Doctors commonly use intralesional injections for conditions like keloid scars, hypertrophic scars, certain skin cysts, localised inflammation, and some joint problems. Because the medication goes straight into the affected area, less overall medicine is needed, and side effects may be reduced. It’s a useful tool in dermatology, orthopaedics, rheumatology, and even cosmetic treatments. An intralesional injection can help reduce pain, swelling, inflammation, scar thickness, and other symptoms, depending on the drug used. Most people find this procedure quick and relatively comfortable when done by trained professionals.

Who May Need Intralesional Injections?

Intralesional injections may be recommended if you have:

- Thick or raised scars like keloids or hypertrophic scars

- Painful, inflamed joints that need targeted treatment

- Localised swelling or inflammation from injury or arthritis

- Certain skin conditions where topical treatment is not enough

- Cysts or nodules that are inflamed but not infected

- Areas needing direct anti-inflammatory or steroid therapy

Your doctor decides whether an intralesional injection is suitable based on the type of lesion, symptoms, and how other treatments have worked.

Types of Intralesional Injections

The type of medication injected depends on the condition being treated:

1. Corticosteroids: These are the most common and help reduce inflammation, swelling, and scar thickness.

2. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU): Sometimes mixed with steroids for scars to reduce tissue overgrowth.

3. Hyaluronidase: Used to help flatten certain scars or break down clumped tissue.

4. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Used in some pain conditions or rejuvenation procedures.

5. Local anaesthetic mixtures: used to numb the area and reduce injection discomfort.

Each drug works differently, but the goal is the same: to target the problem directly and reduce symptoms with minimal overall exposure to medicines.

Intralesional Injection Procedure

Getting an intralesional injection is usually quick and can be done in an outpatient clinic. Here’s how it generally goes:

1. The doctor looks at the lesion, explains why the injection is needed, and discusses expected results and possible side effects.

2. The skin around the lesion is cleaned with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection.

3. A numbing spray or cream may be applied so you feel minimal discomfort. In some cases, a local anaesthetic injection is given first.

4. Using a very fine needle, the doctor injects the medicine directly into the lesion or joint. The dose and depth depend on where it needs to act.

5. You may be asked to rest for a few minutes to ensure there are no immediate reactions.

The entire visit may take 10–20 minutes, depending on how many sites need treatment.

Recovery & Aftercare

Because intralesional injections are minimally invasive, there is no major recovery period. However, a few things are normal after the procedure:

- Mild Discomfort or Pressure: Some people feel a little pressure or slight pain at the injection site, which fades in a few hours.

- Redness or Small Bruise: The treated area may be a bit red or bruised for a day or two.

- Swelling: Mild swelling can happen depending on the medicine used. Ice packs may help.

Here are a few aftercare tips:

- Avoid touching or scratching the area right after the injection.

- Keep the area clean, avoiding vigorous activity that may irritate it.

- Follow the medicine instructions if any creams or pain relievers are prescribed.

- Watch for infection signs like increasing pain, redness, warmth, or pus. Contact your doctor if these occur.

Most people go about normal daily activities immediately after the injection, though some rest and gentle care are helpful on the first day.

Risks & Possible Complications

Intralesional injections are considered safe when done by trained professionals, but like all procedures, they have some possible side effects:

- Pain during or after injection (usually mild)

- Bruising or redness at the site

- Skin thinning or discolouration with repeated corticosteroid injections

- Allergic reaction (rare)

- Infection at the injection site (rare, preventable with cleanliness)

Usually, these effects are mild and resolve on their own. Your doctor will explain the risks before the procedure and make sure the benefits outweigh any possible complications.