Radiology
What is the test for?
This is an X-Ray guided procedure to remove a small amount of fluid that needs to be taken (aspirated) from one of your joints so that it can be sent for tests.
What does the test involve?
When you arrive in the X-Ray department you will be collected from the main reception and asked to change into a gown. Once you are ready, a Health Care Professional will explain what the procedure involves and answer any questions you may have.
If you are happy to proceed you will lie on the X-Ray table with the X-Ray machine above you. The area around the joint will then be exposed, cleaned and covered with a sterile drape. A local anaesthetic will then be injected into the skin to numb the area, this injection will cause a stinging sensation, but this will wear off quickly.
The X-Ray machine will take images to guide the needle into the capsule surrounding the joint a small amount of fluid will be aspirated from the joint. Aspirating the joint can help with swelling, pain, infection or diagnosis of joint problems such as Infection.
How long does it take?
The procedure takes about 30 minutes. If you attend early there is no guarantee that you will be seen before your appointment time.
Will I feel any pain?
As you are given a local anaesthetic, you should not feel any pain during the procedure. You may however feel some discomfort after the procedure when the local anaesthetic wears off. You may want to take paracetamol tablets for the pain. You may also have a little bruising.
It is suggested that you do not drive for an hour after the procedure. So you will require someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
Are there any risks?
Serious risks and complications of having a Joint aspiration are very rare. However, as with any procedure, some risks or complications may occur.
For example:
Infection. The insertion procedure will be carried out in a sterile condition to eliminate or reduce any sources of infection. However, infection may still occur (either local infection of the skin or within the bloodstream) The risk is 1 in 1000.
What do I need to do to prepare for the procedure?
You can come into hospital, have a Joint aspiration and go home the same day. If you are taking Warfarin you will usually need to have a blood test to your clotting before the procedure. Your Doctor or Clinic nurse specialist will be able to tell you how to arrange it.
Take your other medicines as normal, unless your doctor or nurse tells you not to. If you have any queries regarding your medication, please call us on 01609 763060.
Giving my consent (permission)
The staff caring for you will ask your permission to perform the procedure. If you decide to go ahead, you will be asked to sign a consent form that says you have agreed to the procedure and that you understand the benefits, risks and alternatives. If there is anything you don’t understand or you need more time to think about it, please tell the staff caring for you.
Remember, it is your decision. You can change your mind at any time, even if you have signed the consent form. Let staff know immediately if you change your mind.
When will I get my results?
You will receive either a clinic or telephone appointment to see your consultant in the weeks after the test to discuss your results.
Radiation dose and risk
X-rays use ionising radiation which can cause cell damage that may, after many years or decades, turn cancerous. The risk of this happening is very small compared to the normal lifetime risk of developing cancer which is 1 in 2.
We are also all exposed to background radiation every day. The risk of long-term effects is considered when the healthcare team decide whether someone needs an x-ray examination and radiation doses are kept as low as possible. For this examination radiation dose levels are typically equivalent to around 1 to 2 years of background radiation. The associated risk is less than 1 in 1000 – Low.
Is there anything I should tell the staff?
For patients who have ovaries and are between the ages of 12 and 55, the x-ray department has a legal responsibility to ensure that this examination is performed within ten days of the first day of your menstrual period.
Please contact the x-ray department if you are pregnant or if this appointment is beyond the ten day requirement, and another appointment will be arranged for you.
Contact us
If you require further information please contact us on:
Telephone: 01609 763060
Email: [email protected]
Patient experience
South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust would like your feedback. If you wish to share your experience about your care and treatment or on behalf of a patient, please contact The Patient Experience Department who will advise you on how best to do this.
This service is based at The James Cook University Hospital but also covers the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, our community hospitals and community health services.
To ensure we meet your communication needs please inform the Patient Experience Department of any special requirements, for example; braille or large print.
T: 01642 835964
E: [email protected]