Joint Aspiration

What Is a Joint Aspiration?

Joint Aspiration is a procedure using X-ray or Ultrasound to remove fluid from around a joint. Your provider may request this fluid be sent to the laboratory for testing.

Before the Procedure

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. For the best experience please properly prepare for your appointment:

• No special preparation is required. You may eat and drink as normal.
• You will be asked to remove any jewelry in the area of the joint. Please consider leaving jewelry off and at home.

During the Procedure

A team of imaging technologists and provider (doctor, physician assistant or nurse practitioner) will explain and perform the procedure.

• You will lie on an exam table.
• X-ray or ultrasound is used to find the precise area of fluid.
• Provider cleans the skin and injects a numbing medication.
• Provider guides a small needle into the joint and removes fluid into a syringe.
• The imaging technologist holds gentle pressure on the site for a few minutes and applies a band aid.
• Please ask any questions before and during the procedure.

After the Procedure

• You will be provided home instructions to care for your procedure site.
• You may resume your normal diet and most activity immediately following the procedure.
• Your care provider or ordering clinic will call you with the results.
• Follow-up care is a key part of your health. Be sure to make and go to all appointments and call your primary care provider if you have questions.