Synvisc and Hylan

[Guest guest]

In response to the suggestion of the injections of Synvisc and Hylan for

arthritis of the knees.

Before WLS I had arthritis so bad in my knees I used 2 canes or a

electric scooter to get around. The x-rays showed severe bone on bone

arthritis. No cure but knee replacements.

So as last effort for relief I decided on the injections. I had the

Synvisc (series of 5) in one knee, and the Hylan (series of 3) in the

other. They are very painful injectons. My knees became stiff and very

swollen fo a day. I received some relief for a few weeks, nothing

significant to make the pain and the cost worth the procedure. My

insurance paid the bill but I think it was about $300 per injection. I

was groping at straws to prevent the knee replacements due to my large

size. I was told to lose 50 lbs to make surgery easier for me and the

doctor.

That led me to WLS. I was told that relieving the weight pressure on my

knees would help. All of the doctors were correct on that one. By the

time I lost 100 lbs I no longer needed to use canes or scooter.

My knees are still bone on bone but I can WALK without pain (2 miles). I

still rely on Vioxx for pain and swelling. I have to use it. Hopefully,

I will be one of those that does not get an ulcer from it. I have been

on NSAIDS for 10 years.

My advice.............. the injections may work if there is some

cartilege to build on but not if it is totally gone. Is it worth the

effort??? If insurance pays and you can tolerate the pain. It is worse

pain than cortizone injections, which I have also had.

Sheila

WLS 10-5-00

Loss 212 lbs