Long-term results of open elbow synovectomy for rheumatoid arthritis

Long-term results of open synovectomy of the elbow with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were reviewed in 15 elbows. The subjects were evaluated at two time points with average follow-up periods of 4 and 8.7 years, and the results were compared between the two follow-ups. The Mayo Clinic performance score showed significant improvement in pain, motion, and daily function from the intermediate to the long-term follow-up. Overall results were satisfactory with little time-dependent deterioration in radiological grading, confirming the long-term effectiveness of this procedure.