A comparison of the functional efficacy of osteoarthritic knee joints following viscosupplementation treatment
The purpose of this study was to compare two viscosupplementation products, Hyalgan and Synvisc, that may be used to treat osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Hyalgan and Synvisc, have both been studied extensively against NSAIDS and placebos and have both yielded significantly greater improvements in reducing the symptoms associated with OA. Forty-one patients diagnosed with OA of the knee volunteered to participate in this study. Each patient received the standard protocol of lateral injections with extended knee of 2 ml of either Hyalgan or Synvisc using a 20 gauge needle. Product efficacy and functional outcome were assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and was administered to every participant prior to their first injection and again at two and four months post final injection. The results suggest that both viscosupplementation products are comparably effective in decreasing pain and stiffness, and increasing daily function.
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