A procedure to remove inflamed synovial tissue from the elbow joint to relieve symptoms of arthritis.
Through an open incision or arthroscopically, depending on the joint and extent of disease, the inflamed synovial lining is removed from the joint. The procedure typically takes one to two hours and is usually day surgery.
Assessment includes examination and imaging to assess the extent of joint involvement, alongside close coordination with the treating rheumatologist regarding the underlying inflammatory condition and its medication. Standard preoperative steps apply, including fasting and arranging transport home.
A splint or brace supports the joint initially, with physiotherapy introduced as comfort allows. Recovery is generally gradual, with improvement in pain and movement continuing over the following weeks to months.
Rehabilitation focuses on restoring joint movement and strength, tailored to the specific joint treated and the person's overall disease activity. Coordination between the surgical and rheumatology teams supports the best overall outcome.
Risks include infection, which can be a heightened concern in patients on immune-suppressing medication for their underlying condition, along with stiffness and the general risks of anaesthesia. Synovectomy reduces symptoms but does not cure the underlying inflammatory disease.
The aim is to reduce pain and inflammation by removing diseased joint lining, slowing further joint damage from the underlying inflammatory condition. Most patients experience good symptom relief, generally as part of a broader treatment plan that includes ongoing management of the inflammatory condition by a rheumatologist.
Synovectomy removes inflamed joint lining that is causing pain and damage, most often used for inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis that have not been fully controlled by medication. Most patients experience good symptom relief, usually alongside continued medical management of the underlying condition.
