viscosupplementation injections - knee

[BettyVA]

I have had about 3 different series of injections in my knee which has severe osteoarthritis. Two series were Synvisc; one was Suparts.  None of these has provided significant relief of pain or increased mobility.  I have always had these injections done in the doctor's office.  I have been reading on the internet that about 25% of these injections go into the fatty tissue and do not give maximum relief.   Therefore, giving the injections under fluroscopic guidance puts the medication into an optimum location in the knee joint and is much more successful.   I would like to know opinions on this, success rates using this type procedure, and any other additional information since I am considering trying this route in a few months.  Many thanks for any information provided!

[badknees53]

I have had injections from both orthopedic doctor and radiologist using fluroscopic and the radiologist is by far the best.  It was also far less painful.  The radiologist was recommended by my rheumatologist at UVA.  

I also have had synvisc followed 6 weeks after my last injection with a cortisone injection.  The results were remarkable.  I was going on a trip and I was desperate so I talked my doctor into it.  He had never heard of it. The pain relief was substantial and lasted until I had a knee replacement five months later.  

[txsilver]

Hi Betty,

Have not seen any posts on this subject here.  I hope that some of other members will be able to help you through their experience.  My thoughts, the web data makes sense.  Have you asked your doctor if he can either perform the procedure this way or refer you to someone who can?