Results of dorsal wrist synovectomies in the rheumatoid hand.

Seventy-eight patients with rheumatoid arthritis had 102 dorsal wrist tenosynovectomies, intraarticular synovectomies, and Darrach resection from 1962 to 1982. Follow-up after surgery averaged 11 years, with a range from 3 to 20 years. Pain was diminished in all but 17 wrists and motion decreased an average of 13 degrees. Synovitis recurred in 16 wrists and x-ray evidence of progressive intraarticular destruction was seen in 45 wrists. Revision surgery was necessary in 28 wrists.