[Arthroscopic synovectomy of the knee joint in chronic juvenile arthritis]

We report on arthroscopic synovectomy of 19 knee joints in juvenile chronic arthritis with a mean follow-up of 2.2 years (1 to 4 years). In 15 cases the disease course was pauciarticular. Fourteen knee joints showed significant destructive lesions already preoperatively. In two-thirds of patients, we found a good or satisfactory result concerning especially reduction of synovial swelling and effusion. Eleven knee joints also received a significant functional improvement. Indication for arthroscopic synovectomy is given mainly in highly active mon- or pauciarthritis if conservative treatment remained insufficient. Of special importance is an intensive postoperative physiotherapy.