Joint Aspiration (Arthrocentesis)
About the procedure
Care Before the Procedure
- Inform your doctor about medications, especially blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Avoid topical creams or ointments on the joint before the procedure.
- Wear loose clothing for easy access to the joint.
- Allergies or previous reactions to local anesthesia should be reported.
Care During the Procedure
- The joint area is cleaned with antiseptic and local anesthesia is applied.
- A sterile needle is inserted to withdraw fluid from the joint.
- Fluid may be sent to the lab for analysis.
- The procedure usually takes a few minutes and is generally well tolerated.
Care After the Procedure
- Apply pressure and a small dressing to prevent bleeding.
- Rest the joint and avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours.
- Mild pain or swelling may occur; use prescribed medications if needed.
- Report redness, warmth, increased swelling, or fever immediately.
- Follow-up may include review of lab results and further treatment.
Eligibility
- Patients with swollen, painful, or stiff joints.
- Suspected joint infections (septic arthritis).
- Individuals with gout or pseudogout to identify crystal deposits.
- Monitoring inflammatory or autoimmune joint diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
- Relief of joint pressure and pain caused by fluid accumulation.
Relevant Specialties

Internal Medicine
Our Internal Medicine service offers both primary and specialist consultative care for adults with acute illnesses, chronic conditions and complex multisystem problems. With physicians who manage long-term diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension and respiratory conditions, while also treating infections, injuries and musculoskeletal concerns. We offer consultant-led inpatient care through a dedicated hospitalist service and an Acute Medicine Unit with 24-hour doctor and nurse coverage, supported by round-the-clock diagnostics (radiology, pathology and microbiology). Advanced treatments include non-invasive ventilation, high-flow nasal oxygen, plasmapheresis and coordinated plasma therapies, together with integrated physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Our team works closely with surgical and speciality colleagues for complex cases, and we provide home-care, adult immunisation, preventive & executive health checks, and visa medicals for international patients.




