[Effectiveness of arthroscopic synovectomy in rheumatoid arthritis]

Arthroscopic synovectomy in rheumatoid arthritis has proven beneficial in terms of pain relief and joint function, both for upper limb joints (shoulder, elbow, wrist) and the knee. The clinical long-term improvement, such as pain reduction and improved joint mobility, seems more distinct in joints with no or mild joint destruction (early synovectomy) compared to advanced joint damage (late synovectomy). Late-stage elbow arthritis, synovitis of the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints and the rheumatoid ankle can better be addressed by an open approach. Although a real joint-preserving effect has not been demonstrated, pain reduction and improvement in joint function recommend arthroscopic synovectomy as a substantial treatment option in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.