Intra-articular injection

Intra-articular injection

Intra-articular injection is a medical procedure used to deliver medication directly into a joint space. This technique is commonly employed to administer steroids, anesthetics, or other agents for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The primary goal of intra-articular injections is to reduce pain, inflammation, and improve joint function, particularly in conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other types of joint pain.

Indications

Intra-articular injections are indicated for the management of pain and inflammation in various joint disorders. These include:

• Osteoarthritis: To alleviate pain and swelling.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: To control acute flare-ups.
• Gout: To reduce inflammation caused by uric acid crystals.
• Synovitis: To decrease inflammation of the synovial membrane.
• Diagnostic purposes: To determine the source of pain or to decide the effectiveness of a particular drug.

Procedure

The procedure involves the following steps:

1. The skin over the joint is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Local anesthesia may be applied to minimize pain.
3. A needle is carefully inserted into the joint space, guided by techniques such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy to ensure accurate placement.
4. The medication is injected, and the needle is withdrawn.
5. The joint may be moved slightly to distribute the medication evenly.

Risks and Complications

While generally safe, intra-articular injections can have potential risks and complications such as:

• Infection
• Increased pain
• Joint damage
• Nerve damage
• Allergic reactions to the medication

Post-procedure Care

Patients are usually advised to rest the joint for several days following the injection. Monitoring for signs of infection or any adverse reactions is crucial. Follow-up with the healthcare provider is typically scheduled to assess the effectiveness and any side effects.

Efficacy

The efficacy of intra-articular injections varies depending on the type of medication used, the condition being treated, and individual patient factors. Steroids, for example, can provide significant relief from pain and swelling for several weeks to months.

See Also

• Arthrocentesis
• Synovial fluid
• Joint pain management