Musculoskeletal treatment in haemophilia

Abstract

Haemophilia is a group of coagulation disorders inherited in an X-linked recessive pattern. Nearly three-quarters of all haemorrhages in haemophilia occur in the musculoskeletal system, usually in the large muscles and joints of the lower extremity. While prevention of bleeding with active prophylaxis is the recommended optimal therapy for severe haemophilia, there are many patients suffering from musculoskeletal system complications subsequent to uncontrolled bleeding. Recombinant clotting factor concentrates led to home treatment of acute bleeding episodes as well as allowing for minor and major surgical interventions. Avoiding of further complications by radiosynoviorthesis is the first-line recommendation, and arthroplasty is regarded as the effective salvage procedure for patients presenting with severe disability. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation in haemophilia patients are important to return the normal status of joint motion, to regain the muscle strength, to obtain the optimal functional levels and to improve patients’ quality of life. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2019;4 DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.4.180068