Arthroscopic synovectomy for recurrent hemarthrosis of the ankle in hemophilia

Nine patients with a history of recurrent hemarthroses of the ankle due to severe hemophilia were evaluated following arthroscopic ankle synovectomy. Follow-up averaged 33 months (range, 9 to 67 months) and included ankle range of motion, frequency of ankle hemarthroses, radiographic findings, and a functional assessment. The average age at the time of surgery was 12.3 years (range, 6.1 to 21.9 years). The average are of ankle motion was 48.4 degrees (range, 30 degrees to 70 degrees) postoperatively. The functional score as modified from Mazur averaged 36.1 points (range, 17 to 68 points) preoperatively, and 77.9 points (range, 32 to 100 points) postoperatively. Radiographic evidence of ankle arthropathy remained stable for most ankles. Arthroscopic ankle synovectomy for recurrent hemarthrosis due to hemophilia is a viable alternative to open ankle synovectomy for controlling the frequency of ankle bleeds and maintaining ankle function.