Arthroscopic synovectomy of the knee for rheumatoid arthritis.

Arthroscopic synovectomy for rheumatoid arthritis was carried out on a total of 96 knees. The period of follow-up observation varied from 2 to 4 years. The technique was without major complication. There were statistically significant decreases in pain and synovitis over the 4-year follow-up time. The range of movement was maintained. Arthroscopic synovectomy was at least a valuable palliative procedure for uncontrolled synovitis of the knee.