Aspirations

Pain Management

What are aspirations?

An aspiration is a procedure to remove fluid using a needle and syringe. This fluid is typically removed from the space around a joint, a cyst (such as Baker’s cyst or a Ganglion cyst), a bursa, or a hematoma (collection of blood often from trauma). This procedure is done utilizing a local anesthetic and ultrasound guidance to relieve the swelling and/or to obtain fluid for analysis to diagnose a joint disorder. Sometimes a corticosteroid is also injected at the same time as the aspiration to reduce inflammation in the area.

FAQs

How do we know the aspiration is being performed in the correct location?

Aspirations that are guided by ultrasound allow the Radiologist to see the needle while viewing the fluid that is being aspirated.

What can I expect at my appointment?

Once you arrive at the clinic you will be asked to complete a few forms pertaining to the appointment. To allow adequate time for this, please do arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. You may be instructed to change into a gown allow access to the area for treatment.

You will be taken back to a private exam room for your procedure. One of our technologists and a Radiologist will review your previous diagnostic imaging, discuss the reason for your referral to Beam Radiology, and explain the details of the recommended pain management treatment.

Communication is very important to Beam, and you will be given opportunity to ask any questions you may have before beginning. You will be positioned in a way that allows the Radiologist to access the area. The targeted area will be disinfected with a cleaning solution. To ensure effectiveness and accuracy, ultrasound will be used in real-time to guide the aspiration. The Radiologist will inject a local anaesthetic to numb the area prior to aspirating the affected structure.

Following your procedure, you will be directed to wait for a brief observation period. One of our technologists will review the post-procedure care with you, and then you will be free to leave the clinic.

What are my expected results post aspiration/injection?

With successful treatment, pain relief can last weeks, months or even years. It is important to note that any corticosteroid injected requires 2-5 days to take effect, with full effect or pain relief taking place up to two-weeks post-injection. Please allow this time before evaluating the effectiveness of the treatment. In some cases, the fluid may reaccumulate and the procedure may need to be repeated in the future.

What are the risks associated with my injection?

This procedure is performed using sterile technique. Very rare complications include allergic reaction, infection, and bleeding.

If you have diabetes, you may experience a temporary elevation in you blood sugar as a result of the corticosteroid medication (if being used). If you monitor your blood sugar, you may have to adjust your medication accordingly. Common side effects of corticosteroid can include temporary flushing (warmth and redness) in the face, neck, and chest, as well as temporary sleep disruption, or even a flare up of symptoms. If you experience these side effects, they will resolve on their own over the course of the week.

What is the post-care following this treatment?

Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid hot tubs, pools, or baths for 48 hours. You can shower normally.

Use ice and anti-inflammatories, or pain killers if needed after the procedure.

You can perform your normal daily activities but avoid strenuous activities for 3-4 days following the treatment.