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Viscosupplementation in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: Outcome and literature review
Abstract
Background: Viscosupplementation is a recognised mode of management of osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, especially in patients who have failed treatment with NSAIDs.
Objectives: To review the literature on viscosupplementation as well as assess its efficacy in Nigerians with OA of the knee.
Methods: Patients presenting to a private practice rheumatology clinic with symptomatic and radiographic proven OA of the knee were included, having failed two or more NSAIDs. Intra articular cross linked hyaluronan (synvisc) was given in three consecutive weekly doses. Assessment were by both patients numerical pain score and physicians global pain assessment at six and twelve weeks.
Results: There was improvement in both assessments. There were few minor and transient adverse effects.
Conclusion: Viscosupplementation is both efficacious and safe in Nigerians with OA knee, as shown elsewhere.
Objectives: To review the literature on viscosupplementation as well as assess its efficacy in Nigerians with OA of the knee.
Methods: Patients presenting to a private practice rheumatology clinic with symptomatic and radiographic proven OA of the knee were included, having failed two or more NSAIDs. Intra articular cross linked hyaluronan (synvisc) was given in three consecutive weekly doses. Assessment were by both patients numerical pain score and physicians global pain assessment at six and twelve weeks.
Results: There was improvement in both assessments. There were few minor and transient adverse effects.
Conclusion: Viscosupplementation is both efficacious and safe in Nigerians with OA knee, as shown elsewhere.
