[Clinical results of synovectomy for rheumatoid wrist compared with the opposite side (author's transl)].

In the preoperative state, there were similar local findings on both sides of the wrist joint involved by rheumatoid arthritis in the roentgenogram. Synovectomy was performed on the one side of the wrist joint. Thirty six cases were compared with untreated controls and evaluated annually for eight years. From the roentgenological point of view, both wrists have almost similarly taken a turn for the worse. In spite of synovectomy, prevention of joint destruction has been unsuccessful. In the operated wrists it was due to ROM and pronation-supination which significantly improved wrist joint function. Although this improved level has been favorably maintained, there was a decline in dorsipalmar flexion and radio-ulnar flexion year after year. The results in the operated wrists were adequately better than the untreated wrists. Relief of pain was reported as follows: 94.4% : 2 years after the operation 84.8% : 4 years 81.3% : 6 years 80.0% : 8 years Synovectomy was followed by significantly less pain and satisfaction of treatment as reported by most patients. However analgetic effects of early synovectomy that was performed was ineffective and prevention of the destruction of joints roentgenologically met with negative results. The validity and the permanency of this synovectomy study was proved by the comparative evaluations made between the treated wrist joints and the untreated wrist joints, and also by the established clinical results.