what do you know about Synvisc Injections

[powellrj]

My knees are shot. I am looking at a total knee replacement in both knees. My Dr. feels I am too young to have a total knee replacement, but said that something needs to be done. He wants to do Synvisc Injections, as a last step before the knee replacement. He told me that I need to decide what I want to do.

Does anyone know anything about Synvisc Injections? I have 1,000 stories about knee replacements, but they are all from people much much older than I am. Does anyone know anyone who has had knee replacement done in their 40's? How was the outcome?

I have an appointment on thursday and I trying to get as much information before I go.

 

[golfgal]

We have been trying to get my MIL to get her knees replaced for years. She will be 65 this December. One reason she has been hesitating is that the replacements only last so long, like 10 years and you can only something like 2 done. She wanted to be able to walk when she was 80 so she is waiting, still.

My theory on this is that this is one technology that has advanced a LOT in the past 10 years and in another 10 years something better will be out and the "rules" will have changed and the longevity of the replacements will be better, but that isn't a given.

DH and I were talking about some new experimental injections that the orthopedic clinic he went to was starting a study on. I don't know if it is the same thing you are talking about since Dh never listens to details about such things but it wouldn't hurt to look in to it. I suggested he call them and get his mom on their list. She needs replacement anyway so if the stuff doesn't work, it isn't that big of a deal.

This injection is supposed to "replace' cartilage in your knee. That is all I know about it now.

 

[powellrj]

my Dr. told me 15-20 years, but at 46 thats what is so scary. I have always had problems with my knees and all of my DFs family has OA. My DGM was pretty well crippled by the age of 60. I am bumping for the night group.