Synovectomy of the hip in juvenile chronic arthritis

Abstract

Eighteen synovectomies of the hip in 16 patients with juvenile chronic arthritis were performed with satisfactory relief of pain in 13 hips. The average age at operation was 14 years and the follow-up time 52 months. The mobility and walking capacity were not changed by the operation and progress as shown by radiographs before synovectomy continued for most patients. Synovectomy may relieve pain permanently and should always be considered before any prosthetic replacement.