Synvisc Injections
Synvisc, Hyalgan, or Supartz injections:
Hyaluronic acid is the natural lubricant made by your body for joints. As a person ages, the amount of hyaluronic acid they produce usually decreases. Hyaluronic acid, or a synthetic version of hyaluronic acid, can be injected into the knee. This can improve the lubricant properties of the knee joint. Although the substance only stays in the joints for a few days, its effects may be long lasting. It is not entirely clear why, but one theory is that the injections decrease inflammation. It may also encourage the body to produce more of its own hyaluronic acid.
Injectable forms of hyaluronic acid are obtained from rooster combs. People who are allergic to eggs, chicken or feathers should not receive these products.
Hyalgan & Supartz - For these forms of hyaluronic acid to be effective, a patient must receive 3 to 5 injections spaced 1 week apart.
Synvisc - Synvisc is a special high-molecular weight version of hyaluronic acid. Because of this, only 1 injection is needed to get the same results as multiple injections of Hyalgan or Supartz. Because of this, Synivisc is usually the product used at this office.
Patients must receive the injection at their doctor’s office. The injections are quick and relatively painless. The most common side effects are a slight increase in pain or swelling that lasts 24 hours after injection. The success rate is somewhat variable and controversial. The improvement in symptoms is usually temporary and wears off over time. The injections can be repeated in 6 months if the symptoms have returned.
Click below to see a video of a knee injection: