Radiosynovectomy (Radiation synovectomy / Radiosynoviorthesis)

​Radiosynovectomy is an established therapy in arthritis and involves an intra-articular injection of small radioactive particles to treat synovitis (inflammation of the lining of a joint cavity). Frequent indications are rheumatoid arthritis, other inflammatory joint diseases, haemophilic arthritis, and pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS).

​For rheumatoid arthritis, visit conditions write-up at https://www.sgh.com.sg/patient-care/conditions-treatments/rheumatoid-arthritis/symptoms

​Patients considered for radiosynovectomy will have failed at least one intra-articular injection of long-acting steroid. Pain will usually be severe enough to limit normal activities and/or require regular analgesics.

X-rays of the joints to be treated should be obtained.

Additional imaging procedures include bone scan (3-phase of the affected joints) and MRI.

​Preparing for Treatment