What does synovectomy entail?

Synovectomy involves the surgical removal of the synovial membrane, which is a thin layer of tissue that lines the joints and produces synovial fluid, aiding in joint lubrication and nourishment. This procedure is often performed to alleviate pain and inflammation caused by conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or to address synovitis, an inflammation of the synovial membrane. By excising the damaged or diseased synovial tissue, the surgery aims to improve joint function and reduce symptoms, thus enhancing the patient's quality of life.

The other choices pertain to different surgical procedures. The alignment of fractured bones relates to osteosynthesis, fusion of a joint refers to arthrodesis, and immobilization of fractures typically involves methods such as casting or splinting. Each of these terms describes distinct surgical interventions and cannot be conflated with the specific focus of a synovectomy.