Synvisc® in knee osteoarthritis

摘要

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative disease of synovial joints that is characterized by the deterioration of hyaluronan and other constituents of hyaline cartilage, resulting in intermittent pain, swelling, inflammation and varying degrees of functional loss. Viscosupplementation is one of the treatment options for OA-related pain and has been used successfully for several years. Hylan GF-20 (Synvisc®) is a viscosupplement composed of two cross-linked hylan polymers that form a high-molecular-weight hyaluronan compound. Numerous systemic reviews, clinical trials and meta-analyses have established the efficacy of Synvisc for OA knee pain. In comparison with multiple control groups, multiple active comparators and other hyaluronic acid treatments, it has provided equal or better pain relief. Synvisc is effective in repeat treatment cycles and in delaying total knee replacement. Overall, Synvisc has proved efficacious in the treatment of knee OA and has a well-established track record of safety, efficacy and tolerability.