Decompression without synovectomy in rheumatoid extensor tenosynovitis

Fifteen wrists in 11 patients with rheumatoid tenosynovitis involving the extensor tendons were treated by decompression alone, without synovectomy. The results were not unlike those obtained by the more traditional operation of tenosynovectomy. Alleviation of the retinacular compression appears to have a beneficial local effect to reduce synovitis and to arrest tendon attrition and pain. Removal of the synovium is not required in the treatment of such cases.