Synvisc Knee Injections: Uses & Benefits for Osteoarthritis

Simple wear and tear from everyday life can lead to arthritis of the knee, states the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Other contributing factors may include heredity, previous trauma to the knees, age and weight. Women are more likely to develop arthritis of the knees than men, and athletes who participate in high-impact sports share a similar risk. Demographics notwithstanding, Synvisc injections may be the treatment the doctor recommends for OA of the knee.

Indications

• Synvisc injections are indicated for patients who have mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knees. The injections may also be prescribed for patients whose pain is not resolved with the use of NSAID pain relievers, and for those who experience adverse reactions to NSAIDs.

Contraindications

• Synvisc injections are contraindicated in patients who are allergic to hyaluronic acid, which is the key ingredient in Synvisc. The treatment is also contraindicated in patients with infections or wounds in the knee area.

Administration

• Hyaluronic acid injections are administered over the course of three weeks. Each week, the patient is given a single 2 mL dose by injection, directly into the knee joint. Prior to the injection, a small amount of fluid -- joint fluid or effusion -- is removed from the site to make room for the Synvisc.

Adverse Reactions

• Potential adverse reactions to Synvisc include pain and swelling at the injection site, a feeling of warmth in the joint and gait disturbances. More serious adverse effects include effusion requiring aspiration.