Intra-Articular Injection of Y-90 Resin Colloid in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Knee Joint Effusions

SummaryA favorable effect was obtained in 20 out of 22 rheumatoid knee joints treated with 3—6 mCi of Y-90. Y-90 resin colloid produced a fall in synovial fluid leukocytes and enzyme activity. Appreciable uptake of Y-90 in the regional lymph nodes occurred in some cases. Bed rest clearly reduced the leakage of Y-90. The calculated radiation dose in the synovium at a depth of 1 mm. exceeded 5,000 rad.