If you are considering elective surgery, you need to get the facts. Here are ways that surgery can repair the joint.

Synovectomy

The most common procedure for joint repair for people with hemophilia with inhibitors is synovectomy [pronounced SIN-o-VEK-to-me]. Synovectomy removes swollen tissue of the joint. It is done once chronic synovitis has happened. It should be done before permanent joint damage occurs. It may reduce the number of bleeds you have. It may also help slow or prevent joint damage.

In all cases, it is vital to control bleeding. During surgery and after surgery are critical times.





Arthroscopic synovectomy removes the swollen lining of the joint. The surgeon uses an arthroscope [pronounced AR-thro-scope] to see inside the knee.

The arthroscope is connected to a television. This allows the surgeon to see directly into the joint. The surgeon inserts the surgical tool through another cut in the skin. The swollen synovium is then removed.

This procedure is done most often on knees, shoulders, and ankles. It is also done on hips and elbows. Arthroscopic synovectomy is done in the hospital. It usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes.

Open synovectomy is done by surgically opening the knee. The synovial membrane is then cut out or burned off. More synovial tissue can usually be removed with this procedure. However, this procedure requires several days or more of hospitalization. You may also need large amounts of clotting factor and a physical therapy program. Arthroscopic synovectomy is preferred. Open procedures are now done less often.

 

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