Current Concepts of the Non-rheumatic Synovial Tissues of the Knee Joint in Different Scenarios

Abstract

Abstract
Studies on synovial tissue of the knee joint are seldom presented at orthopaedic meetings. This may be due to the lack of a commercial value of this precious tissue for the orthopaedic market other than when a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is involved. Synovialis is a highly interactive tissue that responds to the slightest trauma as well as to greater problems such as infections. It also has functions related to the immune system. In secreting the hyaluronic acid (HA)-rich synovial fluid (from the Greek words syn [together] and oon [egg], meaning ‘like the white of an egg’), it lubricates, nourishes, and protects the hyaline cartilage from wear and tear. This tissue aids in pathological conditions as well as in the repair of cartilage, menisci, and ligament tissues. Synovial tissue should not be forgotten by orthopaedic surgeons.

Keywords
Synovial, synoviosis, synoviocyte, disphoria articularis syndrome, synovitis, knee pain, swollen joint

Disclosure: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
Received: April 29, 2009 Accepted: May 6, 2009
Correspondence: Rafael Iñigo-Pavlovich, MD, PhD, FACS, Reforma 273 suites 6 and 7, Proyecto Río Sonora, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, 83280. E: Inigo@orthopedica.org