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Arthrocentesis

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Procedure

Arthrocentesis

(Joint Aspiration)

Definition

Arthrocentesis takes joint fluid out using a needle. It can be done in most of the joints in the body. It is usually done on large joints like the knee or shoulder.

Arthrocentesis.

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Reasons for Procedure

Arthrocentesis done to:

  • Find out why a joint is painful, swollen, or is filled with fluid
  • Ease pain and allow the joint to move better
  • Diagnose the type of arthritis in a joint
  • Confirm a diagnosis of infection
  • Check for crystals in the joint fluid, which could be a sign of gout

Some people may have medicine injected in the joint space after the fluid has been taken out.

Possible Complications

Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor will go over some problems that could happen, such as

  • Excess bleeding
  • Problems from anesthesia, such as wheezing
  • Infection
  • Increased pain
  • Damage to nearby structures

Things that may raise the risk of problems are:

  • An infection in the body
  • Bleeding problems
  • Use of blood thinners

What to Expect

Problems to Look Out For

Call the doctor if you are not getting better or you have:

  • Signs of infection, such as fever and chills
  • Redness, swelling, excessive bleeding, or any discharge from the site
  • Pain that does not get better with medicine
  • New or worsening symptoms

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

Prior to Procedure

The care team may meet with you to talk about:

  • Anesthesia options
  • Any allergies you may have
  • Current medicines, herbs, and supplements that you take and whether you need to stop taking them before the procedure
  • Whether you need a ride to and from the procedure

Anesthesia

You will be given local anesthesia. The area will be numbed.

Description of the Procedure

A needle attached to a syringe will be inserted into the joint. Fluid will be pulled into the syringe. Medicine may also be injected into the joint through the needle. The needle will be removed. A bandage will be put on the site.

How Long Will It Take?

About 5 to 10 minutes

Will It Hurt?

Pain and swelling are common in the first 2 days. Medicine and home care can help.

Post-procedure Care

At the Care Center

Right after the procedure, the staff may:

  • Give you pain medicine
  • Raise the joint to ease swelling
  • Apply ice to the joint

At Home

It will take a few weeks for the incision and muscles to fully heal. Physical activity may be limited during this time. You may need to ask for help with daily activities and delay return to work.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Joint aspiration (arthrocentesis). Rady Children's Hospital San Diego website. Available at: https://www.rchsd.org/health-articles/joint-aspiration-arthrocentesis.
  • Synovial fluid analysis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/lab-monograph/synovial-fluid-analysis.

Contributors

  • Warren A. Bodine, DO, CAQSM
Last Updated:
2022-09-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.