Elbow Arthrocentesis

imagesUsed to evacuate abnormal fluid collections from the joint space for synovial fluid analysis


   imagesSeptic arthritis


   imagesCrystal arthropathy


   imagesHemarthrosis


   imagesInflammatory process


imagesUsed to diagnose occult fracture or ligamentous injury


imagesUsed to inject methylene blue to test for joint capsule integrity when there is an overlying laceration that potentially extends into the joint space


imagesUsed to decrease or relieve pressure in the joint to provide pain relief


imagesUsed to instill medication for treatment and pain relief


CONTRAINDICATIONS



imagesAbsolute Contraindications


   imagesAbscess/cellulitis overlying the procedural site (note that often infectious arthritis can mimic an overlying soft-tissue infection)


imagesRelative Contraindications


   imagesBleeding diatheses


   imagesKnown bacteremia


RISKS/CONSENT ISSUES



imagesPotential for introducing infection (sterile technique must be utilized)


imagesProcedure can cause pain and discomfort (if no anesthetic allergy exists, local anesthesia will be given)


imagesNeedle puncture can cause localized bleeding


imagesReaccumulation of fluid may occur


imagesRisk of injuring articular cartilage with needle tip



imagesGeneral Basic Steps


   imagesPatient preparation


   imagesSterilize area


   imagesAnalgesia


   imagesAspiration


   imagesAnalyze fluid

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Aug 9, 2016 | Posted by in EMERGENCY MEDICINE | Comments Off on Elbow Arthrocentesis

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