The vast majority of all assessments are based on comparisons of the patient's situation before and after surgery, so-called retrospective analyses, with all of their deficiencies in reliability. The scientific foundation in this field is hence rather weak. Published studies rather uniformly report that rheumatic surgery often leads to a reduction in pain and an improvement in function. These conditions are often successfully treated by rheumatic surgery. Complications are common, but mild.
Deterioration resulting from the procedure is reported in a very small percentage of the patients.
The shoulder is often affected by rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatic surgery alternatives include the surgical removal of the synovial membrane at an early stage, or implantation of artificial joints at later stages. Scientific studies of the long-term effects of these interventions are, however, limited. Pain, instability, and a loss in mobility of the elbow often occurs relatively early in the course of rheumatic disease. Complications are relatively common, but can always be treated or may heal spontaneously.