Radiosynoviorthesis is used for the conservative treatment of rhizarthrosis = osteoarthritis of the thumb saddle joint.
Radioactive material for conservative therapy
In this treatment, a radioactive material (186 rhenium) is injected into the thumb saddle joint. This leads to a reduction in the activity of the wear and tear disease, including a reduction in swelling and pain.
Duration of effect
Patience is sometimes required for 3 months until the full effect is achieved. The duration of effect is a few years (on average 2 years). Radiosynoviorthesis can be used repeatedly.
Complications of this treatment for rhizarthrosis
However, it should not be concealed that complications can also occur here. These include infection, the death of tissue and adhesions of surrounding structures (e.g. tendons and ligaments) resulting in a stiffening of the thumb saddle joint.
