Joint Aspiration
Timing of Joint Aspiration
A single swollen joint should always be aspirated.
The main reason to aspirate any joint is to rule out infection.
Joint aspiration should be done as soon as possible.
Indications for joint are listed here.
Contraindication to aspiartion
- There are no absolute contraindications to joint aspiration in case of possible joint infection.
- Joint Aspiration can be done even if there is coagulopathy or low platelet count as these can be corrected before aspiration.
- Aspiration thru Cellulitis or skin lesions should be avoided if possible. If this has to be done, then patient should be hospitalized for parenteral antibiotics. This is also the case in patients with positive blood cultures and or nearby bone infection.
- A joint replacement aspiration should usually be done by an orthopedic surgeon if possible.