Synovectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the inflamed synovial membrane (synovium) that lines the inside of joints. The synovium normally produces a small amount of lubricating fluid that allows smooth joint motion, but in various inflammatory conditions, it becomes thickened, inflamed, and produces excessive fluid that causes swelling, pain, and progressive joint damage. This procedure is most commonly performed for rheumatoid arthritis, but is also indicated for other inflammatory arthropathies, pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS), synovial chondromatosis, hemophilic arthropathy, and chronic synovitis that has failed conservative treatment with medications and injections. Dr. Kumar performs both arthroscopic and open synovectomy depending on the joint involved and extent of disease. Arthroscopic synovectomy is preferred whenever possible, as it offers the advantages of minimal invasive access, reduced post-operative pain, faster recovery, and better visualization of joint compartments using high-definition camera systems. The most common joints treated include the knee, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and ankle. During the procedure, Dr. Kumar systematically removes all diseased synovial tissue using specialized shavers and radiofrequency ablation devices while preserving important structures like ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. Thorough synovectomy requires meticulous technique to access all areas of the joint where inflamed tissue may be hiding. The primary goal of synovectomy is to reduce pain, decrease swelling, improve joint function, and slow the progression of cartilage destruction caused by chronic inflammation. While synovectomy does not cure the underlying inflammatory disease, it provides significant symptom relief and can delay the need for joint replacement surgery, particularly in younger patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The procedure is most effective when performed early in the disease process before extensive cartilage damage has occurred. In rheumatoid arthritis, synovectomy works best when combined with optimal medical management with disease-modifying drugs. Patients typically experience marked reduction in joint swelling and pain following synovectomy, with improvement in range of motion and functional capacity. The synovium can regenerate over time, so some patients may experience recurrence of symptoms, though this typically takes several years and the regenerated tissue is often less inflamed than the original diseased synovium. Recurrence rates are lower with arthroscopic synovectomy that achieves more complete removal compared to open techniques. Physical therapy is essential for optimal recovery to restore motion and strength. At Arthoscenter, Dr. Kumar achieves excellent results with arthroscopic synovectomy for carefully selected patients, with 70-85% experiencing significant symptom relief lasting 5-10 years or longer. The minimally invasive approach allows earlier mobilization and faster return to activities. Outcomes are best in patients with isolated synovitis without severe cartilage loss who maintain compliance with medical treatment for their underlying inflammatory condition. Dr. Kumar's systematic arthroscopic technique ensures thorough removal while minimizing surgical trauma and complications.