Radiosynovectomy is a novel method of treatment for several acute and chronic inflammatory joint disorders. A
small amount of a beta-emitting radionuclide is injected into the affected joint delivering a radiation dose of 70 to 100
Gy to the synovia. The proliferative tissue is destroyed, secretion of fluid and accumulation of inflammation causing
cellular compounds stops and the joint surfaces become fibrosed, providing long term symptom relief. The radionuclides
are injected in colloidal form so that they remain in the synovium and are not transported by lymphatic vessels causing
radiation exposure to other organs. Complete reduction of knee joint swelling has been seen in above 40% and pain
relief in 88% of patients. Wrist, elbow, shoulder, ankle and hip joints showed significant improvement in 50-60% and
restoration of normal function and long term pain relief has been achieved in about 70% of small finger joints. In
hemophilic arthropathies complete cessation of bleeding in about 60% and improved mobility in 75% of patients has
been reported.