Trick of the Trade: Use the angiocatheter for knee arthrocentesis
- Prepare for arthrocentesis in the usual fashion (anteromedial or anterolateral approach)
- Instead of attaching a needle to the syringe, attach an 18 gauge angiocatheter
- Insert the angiocatheter while aspirating back on the syringe
- When synovial fluid is aspirated, advance the catheter into the joint and remove the angiocatheter needle
- The plastic catheter is left in the joint for aspiration
Benefit
- No metal needle left in the knee, which may comfort some patients
- No needle to secure if you need to change syringes
- Convenient way to also administer intraarticular steroids/analgesics
- Joint/catheter can be manipulated without fear of causing tissue injury
Pearls
- Milk the joint/effusion to facilitate fluid collecting in the joint space
- Slight manipulation of the joint may help the fluid re-distribute into the joint space
- Aspirate as you slowly withdraw the catheter in case there is a residual fluid pocket
- Be aware of a kinked catheter as an extreme angle may impede aspiration
Other pearls regarding septic arthritis? Check out synovial lactate for septic arthritis and the Paucis Verbis card: Septic Arthritis.
Has anyone tried the angiocatheter technique for knee arthrocentesis? We’d love to hear about your experience!
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