How to Remove Fluid From the Knee

According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, "Joint aspiration refers to removing fluid from the space around a joint using a needle and syringe." The knee is the most common joint from which fluid is removed, but doctors are able to remove it from other joints such as elbows and hips. This procedure is relatively painless, and can be done without the use of lidocane.

Things You'll Need

• Sterile gloves
• Sterile fenestrated drape
• Absorbent pad
• Lidocane injection, if deemed necessary
• 2 10-ml syringes
• 2 21-gauge, 1-inch needles
• 1 inch of 4-by-4 gauze soaked with Betadine
• Sterile bandage

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Instructions

• 1

  Remove any clothing that comes directly into contact with the knee. If necessary, a blanket or gown can be used to help the patient feel more comfortable.

• 2

  Lay the patient down on the exam table and place an absorbent pad underneath the knee. The knee can either be lying flat or bent at a 90-degree angle, depending upon the physician's preference.

• 3

  Examine the knee for the total amount of fluid and any additional complications such as infections or overlaying cellulites. Palpate the kneecap and mark 1 inch above and below for optimal entry points.

• 4

  With gloved hands, wash the knee with betadine and place the sterile drape over the knee.

• 5

  According to Thomas J. Zuber, M.D., Saginaw Cooperative Hospital, Michigan, "The needle is inserted through stretched skin. Some physicians administer lidocaine (Xylocaine) into the skin, but stretching the pain fibers in the skin with the nondominant hand can also reduce needle-insertion discomfort. The needle is directed at a 45-degree angle distally and 45 degrees into the knee, tilted below the patella. Once the needle has been inserted 1 to 1 1/2 inches, aspiration is performed, and the syringe should fill with fluid."

• 6

  Once the syringe has filled with fluid, gently remove the needle, cleanse the skin, and place a bandage over the entry site.