$Unique_ID{BRK01490}
$Pretitle{Special Procedures and Laboratory Tests, Musculoskeletal System and
Connective Tissue}
$Title{What is the Arthroscopic Operation For Arthritis?}
$Subject{arthritis joint arthroscopy}
$Volume{P-17, M-17}
$Log{
Figure 1*0001801.scf
Figure 2*0001802.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is the Arthroscopic Operation For Arthritis?


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  Can you tell me anything about an operation that removes inflamed
tissue from a joint that has been attacked by arthritis and is now more
painful than I can bear?  I can't remember just what the doctor called it, but
it is performed by sticking a tube in your knee, and I was also told that I
wouldn't have to stay in the hospital overnight?  Is this enough information
for you to be able to answer my question?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  The tube you refer to is most probably an arthroscope, a telescope
like instrument that permits the surgeon to observe the inside of a joint and
to repair a wide variety of joint disorders.  The name of the operation that I
believe is the one being suggested to you is a "synovectomy".  In rheumatoid
arthritis (RA), the synovium, a thin membrane that covers and protects the
joints becomes inflamed.  This "synovitis" can be most painful, and though
usually controllable in most people with medications, yields only to surgical
removal in others where treatment has failed.  The operation, performed with
the aid of the arthroscope, removes the inflamed tissue, and with it the pain.
The positive results of the operation may last for as long as two years, but
it is not yet clear whether the operation can prevent further joint
destruction resulting from the RA.  In most hospitals this operation is
performed as day surgery, and does not require an overnight stay.
ÿ
----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
