[Technic of synovectomy in the infected knee joint]

In case of early diagnosis as well as correct indication and operation technique, synovectomy is an essential part in the treatment of an infected knee joint. The new formation of the synovia has been demonstrated by clinical/empirical as well as experimental studies, so that the alimentation of the cartilage can be normalized. Postoperative scarring due to adherence has to be prevented by continuous therapeutic exercises. In case of severe early infections, already existent severe cartilage lesions, and fibrous ankylosis, arthrodesis by means of external fixation is the method of choice. In these cases neither a healing of the infection nor a satisfactory function of the knee joint can be expected after the application of synovectomy.