A joint aspiration is a procedure to remove fluid from the space around a joint using a needle and syringe. This is done under local anesthetic and image guidance (either Ultrasound guided or fluoroscopy-guided) to relieve swelling and/or to obtain fluid for analysis to diagnose a joint disorder. Sometimes a corticosteroid is also requested to be done at the same time as the aspiration to reduce inflammation in the joint.
For information about the post care instructions, click here.
Joint aspirations are guided by a live x-ray (fluoroscopy) and x-ray contrast (dye) or by Ultrasound.
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 for your procedure.
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 asked to lay down on the exam table on your back, exposing the joint of interest. The targeted area will be cleaned and sterilized. To ensure effectiveness and accuracy, fluoroscopy or ultrasound will be used in real-time to guide the aspiration. Fluoroscopy is a type of X-ray imaging. The Radiologist will inject a local anaesthetic to numb the area prior to aspirating the joint.
Following your aspiration, you will be directed to our recovery area for a brief observation period. One of our Nurses will review the post-procedure care with you, and then you will be free to leave the clinic.
With successful treatment, pain relief can last weeks or years. It is important to note that if a corticosteroid is used, it is expected to take effect between 2-5 days, with full effect or pain relief taking place between one and two weeks post-injection. With sufficient pain relief, a physiotherapy regime is then recommended to strengthen muscles and prevent future flare-ups.
This procedure is performed using a sterile technique, very rare complications include allergic reactions, infection, and bleeding.
If you have diabetes, you may experience a temporary elevation in your blood sugar as a result of the corticosteroid (cortisone) medication (if being used). If you monitor your blood sugar, you may have to adjust your medication accordingly. Common side effects of cortisone can include temporary flushing (warmth and redness) in the face, neck, and chest, as well as temporary sleep disruption. If you experience these side effects, they will resolve on their own over the week.
Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid hot tubs, pools, or baths for 48 hours. You can shower normally.
You can perform your normal daily activities but avoid strenuous activities for the next 3-4 days following the treatment.
For information about the post care instructions, click here.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please
contact us. We look forward to supporting your journey to better health.
Dr. Clerk is a radiologist and fellowship-trained interventional radiologist with a wide array of experience in both interventional pain management and diagnostic imaging. In addition to providing expert patient care, Dr. Clerk places utmost importance on building a compassionate practice that recognizes patients as people, not numbers.
When you choose Beam, you can be confident that Dr. Clerk will stay with you throughout your care journey and help you make smart decisions about your pain and imaging needs.
Université de Sherbrooke
Medical School
Université de Sherbrooke
Residency | Diagnostic Radiology
Harvard Medical School
Fellowship | Neuroradiology
The Spine Fracture Institute
Fellowship | Interventional Pain Management