Synovectomy of the elbow in rheumatoid arthritis.

The results of 39 synovectomies of the elbow performed during the period 1976-1980 were evaluated, and the factors which may have influenced the success of synovectomy analysed. Synovectomy results were satisfactory in 27 of the cases. Success of synovectomy seems to be related to the operative approach used and not to the radiographic grade of destruction of the elbow or to the duration of the follow-up.