title: Arthroscopic synovectomy of the metacarpophalangeal joint in refractory rheumatoid arthritis: a technique.
abstract: Arthroscopic synovectomy was performed on 29 metacarpophalangeal joints belonging to 21 patients with refractory rheumatoid arthritis. This article describes the method of anesthesia, landmarks, and operative technique. Short-term (12-month) results and patient satisfaction have been excellent. No complications were noted. We conclude that arthroscopic synovectomy of the metacarpophalangeal joints in patients with refractory rheumatoid arthritis can be performed safely and effectively. Possibilities for improvement of the technique as well as possible uses of the technique in research are discussed.
authors.affiliation: The Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center of Maryland, Frederick, USA.
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Wei
authors.forename: S K
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Delauter
authors.forename: M S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Erlichman
authors.forename: L M
authors.initials: LM
authors.lastname: Rozmaryn
authors.forename: S J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Beard
authors.forename: D L
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Henry
mesh_terms: D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000601:surgery*; D001182:Arthroscopy; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008662:Metacarpophalangeal Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D000074402:Synovectomy; D016896:Treatment Outcome