As always, this is from the ever expanding google doc on bits and bobs I read and learn from and transfer here for all our learning pleasure.
Reasons to tap a joint
- fluid for analysis
- infection
- crystals
- drain tense haemarthroses
- trauma
- heamophilia (only after factor replacement)
- evaluate communication with a wound
- instillation of analgesics (remember you can inject morphine in a joint) or anti-inflammatory agents
Contraindications (pretty much all relative):
- cellulitis over the joint
- coagulopathy (but with small needle, it’s well described)
- prosthetic joint (you really want ortho involved here)
References:
- Rosen’s 8th Chapter 116
More FOAMed
[featured image: CC License, Knee effusion, James Heliman MD, Wikipedia]
