Arthrocentesis (drainage) of joint

Procedure Information

What is Arthrocentesis (drainage) of joint?

Arthrocentesis (drainage) of joint is a medical procedure that involves taking a sample of fluid from a joint in the body for testing or to remove excess fluid and reduce pressure.

Why would I get an Arthrocentesis (drainage) of joint?

You may get an arthrocentesis (drainage) of joint if you have swelling, pain, or other complications caused by too much fluid in a joint such as the knee, shoulder, wrist, or hip. This procedure can also be done for other reasons, including diagnosing joint conditions, assessing joint damage, and testing for infection.

What happens during an Arthrocentesis (drainage) of joint?

Typically, you will be lying down on your side while the doctor or nurse numbs the area around the joint using a local anesthetic before making a small incision where the fluid sample will be drawn from. A hollow needle connected to a syringe will be inserted into the joint to draw out the fluid and the sample will be sent to a lab for testing.

What to expect after an Arthrocentesis (drainage) of joint?

After the procedure, your joint may feel some discomfort, but this should decrease with rest and possibly over-the-counter pain medications. You may experience some brief swelling and bruising as well. Your healthcare provider may recommend some physical therapy exercises or other treatments to ensure proper healing.

Conclusion

An arthrocentesis (drainage) of joint is a relatively simple procedure that can provide insight into the cause of joint pain and swelling or reduce pressure from excess fluid. You should contact your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns after the procedure.