<p>Just a bit more than three years ago, I had a series of three Orthovisc injecitons in my right knee due to degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis). My knee was bone-on-bone and the Orthovisc gave me three years of relief. My doctor had told me when I got the series that it would probably last six to eighteen months, so I feel extremely fortunate that it lasted so long. In January, I had surgery on my left knee for a torn meniscus. My doctor told me at that time that my future is knee replacements. Both knees have been hurting so much for the past month or more so I called today and asked for another round of Orthovisc injecitons, this time for both knees. The nurse told me my doctor (different than original due to insurance) uses Supartz, not Orthovisc. They’re going to contact my insurance company for pre-approval and then schedule me for the series. Has anyone here ever had Supartz injections? I’m just so hoping that I’ll get the same wonderful relief I got from Orthovisc. I’d also like to hear from anyone that has had knee replacements.</p>
<p>I don’t know anything about any of these compounds in particular (although I do know there is a single-injection version of one of them now), but if Orthovisc worked for you in the past, why not find a doctor that uses Orthovisc? Does your insurance give you the ability to pick your doctor?</p>
<p>I was planning to see the orthopedist that performed my knee surgery in January. He is on my insurance and is familiar with my situation. The previous doctor that gave me the Orthovisc injections is no longer on my insurance. I’m going to call tomorrow and ask my current doctor if we can use Orthovisc instead. At this point, I’ll try just about anything …</p>