The synovial fluid. Arthrocentesis

The synovial fluid is the joint-washing substance. His research is used in the diagnosis of various joint diseases. These include, mainly, infectious, aseptic or septic arthritis, osteoarthrosis.

The analysis reveals which synovial fluid has a volume, as well as its transparency and color. In addition, there are biochemical indicators, for example, the concentration of uric acid, glucose, total protein.

The purpose of the study may be assessment of the condition during the preventive examination or in case of suspected development of the disease. In addition, the analysis indicates the effectiveness (or lack of effect) of the treatment.

The synovial fluid is taken during arthrotcentesis. During this procedure, the skin in the joint area is treated with an antiseptic. For the purpose of anesthesia, a local anesthetic is administered. Then a small amount of liquid is pumped out with a syringe with a needle. After taking the sample, the needle is carefully removed from the joint.

Depending on the threshold of pain sensitivity, there will be a degree of discomfort. When anesthetic is administered, the patient may feel a slight sipping. During material intake, discomfort or a feeling of bursting may appear. Passing the needle through the joint membrane can cause short-term pain. For a few days, the site of the puncture can bring unpleasant sensations.

At the end of the procedure, a dressing and a load are applied. To relieve pain and reduce puffiness, it is allowed to apply ice in packets to the puncture site. During the first few days, it is recommended to exclude the load on the joint. In case of development of difficulties in limb movements, pain, swelling, redness or pus formation after arthrocentesis, a doctor should be visited.

The main complications of this study are infection and hemorrhage in the joint. Before the procedure, it is necessary to notify the doctor about all the available features of the condition, and also discuss with him all the possible consequences.

When the cartilaginous tissue of the articular surface is affected, a degenerative-dystrophic disease develops. It is called osteoarthritis. In the group at risk of developing this pathology, individuals with a genetic predisposition, excessive body weight, are included. In addition, provoking factors can serve as transferred surgical interventions and joint injuries.

In patients suffering from osteoarthrosis, the synovial fluid loses its protective and lubricating properties. This occurs as a result of a gradual decrease in the molecular weight and concentration of hyaluronic acid. This is one of the natural components of which the synovial fluid consists.

Recovery of its viscosity is carried out with a special gel. This drug contains hyaluronic acid.

The goal of the therapeutic course is to form a synovial fluid prosthesis (gel implant). Treatment involves the introduction of three injections. The interval between injections is one week.

Thus, the synovial fluid is replaced. The gel implant is able to withstand the impact loads of the joint.

Injection is a sterile viscous, resilient high-molecular prosthesis for single use. The syringe with the drug should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of two to fifteen degrees. Before the injection (for twenty to forty minutes), the drug should be removed and left at room temperature.

When using a gel, exposure to other drugs is not expected.