Because of frequent joint bleeds, minor and major orthopedic procedures are the most common elective procedures needed in people with hemophilia A or B with inhibitors. To learn more about your surgical procedure, select from the options in the drop down menu below.
ARTHROSCOPIC SYNOVECTOMY
Arthroscopic synovectomy is a surgical synovectomy in which the swollen lining of the joint is removed using an arthroscope [pronounced AR-thro-scope] to see inside the knee.
An arthroscope is a very thin tube with a light at the end that is inserted into the joint through a small cut in the skin. The arthroscope is connected to a television and allows the physician to see directly into the joint. The surgeon inserts the surgical instrument through another cut in the skin and removes the swollen synovium.
This procedure is done most often on knees, shoulders, and ankles, but may also be done on hips and elbows. Arthroscopic synovectomy is done in the hospital, and usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes.2
