The rheumatoid elbow: patterns of joint involvement and the outcome of synoviorthesis.

Rheumatoid arthritis of the elbow is a common condition. A group of 86 patients has been reviewed. Patterns of joint involvement are described. These patients have been subjected to 137 radioisotopic synoviortheses. 72% achieved a result classed as "good" and this review underlines the efficacy of the procedure of synoviorthesis. Radiological staging has been shown to have prognostic significance; 89% of good results were obtained in management of Steinbrocker grade I. No complications were recorded.