Synovial biopsy

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Synovial biopsy

Overview

Risks

Results

Synovial biopsy

Definition:

The synovial membrane is tissue that lines a joint. In this biopsy, a sample is taken of the joint lining.

Alternative Names:

Biopsy - synovial membrane

How the test is performed:

The test may be done in your health care provider's office. The joint to be biopsied will be positioned so there is easy access. The joint will be injected with a local anesthetic.

Next, an instrument (trocar) used to force fluid from a cavity is inserted into the joint space. The biopsy needle is inserted through the trocar and twisted to cut out a tissue segment. The biopsy needle is removed and the trocar is removed. The biopsy site is cleansed and pressure and bandage are applied.

This procedure may also be performed in a hospital via arthroscopy.

How to prepare for the test:

Inform your health care provider of any drug allergies you have, which medications you are taking (including any herbal medicines and supplements), if you have bleeding problems, and if you are pregnant. You must sign a consent form.

For infants and children:

The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

Infant test/procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
Toddler test/procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
Preschooler test/procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
Schoolage test/procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
Adolescent test/procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

With the local anesthetic, you will feel a prick and a burning sensation. As the trocar is inserted, there will be some discomfort.

Why the test is performed:

Synovial biopsy helps diagnose gout, bacterial infections, or other infections and may suggest the presence of inflammatory conditions, such as autoimmune disorders.

Review Date: 7/4/2004
Reviewed By: Andrew L. Chen, M.D., M.S., Steadman-Hawkins Sports Medicine Foundation, Vail, CO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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