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.
SYNOVIORTHESIS OR RADIOSYNOVECTOMY
Synoviorthesis or radiosynovectom is the medical removal of the swollen lining of the joint. A radiosynovectomy is the injection of a small amount of radioactive substance into the joint. This procedure is similar to joint aspiration, but a substance is injected rather than fluid being drawn out.
The chemical substance destroys the swollen synovial tissue, which reduces pain and swelling, and decreases the frequency of acute bleeds. The radioactive substance usually does not penetrate very deep into the tissue so there is little risk of damage to the surrounding tissues.2 There are risks with the agents that are injected, which you should discuss with your doctor.
A medical synovectomy is usually done as an outpatient procedure.2 It is much less invasive than a surgical synovectomy, and results in less loss of range of motion. There is less need for rehabilitation and after about 24 hours of moderate rest you may be able to gradually return to regular physical activity.13 It generally does not require hospitalization and requires less clotting factor therapy, therefore, it is less costly.2
