Overview
During a joint aspiration, a doctor uses a needle to take fluid out of your joint. This might be done to test the fluid for infection or to find a cause for a joint problem. These problems may include bleeding, infection, gout, or pseudogout. Sometimes fluid is taken out to relieve pressure and pain from too much fluid in the joint.
The area where the needle is inserted may be numbed before the needle is put in. Then the needle is slowly put into the joint. A syringe attached to the needle is used to remove fluid. The fluid may be put in tubes or containers and sent to the lab. Sometimes a shot of steroid medicine is also given into the joint. This can help relieve inflammation and pain. It can also help prevent the fluid from building up again.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.