Skip to main content

Joint punctate

Joint punctate is a diagnostic method used in dogs to detect and treat joint diseases. It involves taking fluid from the joint with a fine needle and examining it. In this article, you will find out how a joint puncture is performed on dogs, when it is useful and what risks it entails.

What is a joint puncture?

A synovial puncture is a minimally invasive examination that allows the nature of the synovial fluid to be analyzed. Joint fluid, also known as synovial fluid, is a clear, viscous liquid that lubricates and nourishes the joints. It contains cells, proteins and other components that can provide information about the condition of the joint.

A joint puncture is usually performed under local anesthesia. The vet disinfects the skin over the affected joint and pricks the joint with a thin needle. He then draws off some fluid with a syringe and transfers it into a tube. The extracted fluid is then analyzed in the laboratory.

When is a joint puncture useful?

A joint puncture can be helpful for various joint diseases in dogs, such as

  • Osteoarthritis: a chronic degeneration of the joint cartilage that leads to pain, inflammation and restricted movement.
  • Arthritis: An acute or chronic inflammation of the joint that can be triggered by various causes, such as infections, autoimmune diseases or trauma.
  • Gout: A metabolic disease in which uric acid crystals are deposited in the joints, leading to pain and inflammation.
  • Tumors: Benign or malignant growths in or on the joint that can lead to swelling, pain and loss of function.

A joint puncture can also be performed before a planned operation on a joint in order to avoid or reduce possible complications.

What are the risks of a joint puncture?

A joint puncture is a relatively simple and safe procedure that rarely leads to complications. Possible risks include:

  • Bleeding: There may be some bleeding from the puncture, but this usually stops quickly on its own.
  • Infections: There is a small risk of bacteria getting into the joint and causing an infection. This can lead to fever, pain and swelling and may require antibiotic therapy.
  • Injuries: There may be injury to nerves or blood vessels near the joint, which can lead to numbness or bruising.

To minimize these risks, a joint puncture should only be performed by an experienced veterinarian. In addition, the dog should rest the affected joint after the procedure and be checked regularly by the vet.

A joint puncture is a useful method to find out more about the health of a dog's joint. It can be used for various diseases and helps with diagnosis and therapy. A joint puncture is a simple procedure that carries few risks. If you suspect that your dog has problems with his joints, you should take him to the vet and find out about the possibilities of a joint puncture.

The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.

We help you find the nearest vet → This way