Patient Resources
What is the purpose of a synovial biopsy?
Your doctor referred you for synovial biopsy because you have a medical condition affecting your joint. Despite testing, your doctor is still not sure of the cause of your joint inflammation. Obtaining small amounts of tissue from inside the joint and subjecting the tissue to a variety of tests, may produce valuable diagnostic information and allow your doctor to treat you more effectively.
What To Expect
The procedure is done with:
-local anesthesia (pain medicine that will keep you from feeling pain during the procedure)
-no sedation (medicines used to make you calm, drowsy, or fall asleep)
After Care
On the day of the procedure, and for the next 3 days, keep a dab of antibiotic ointment on the puncture site, and keep it covered with a clean band-aid. It’s okay to get the area wet, following exposure to water, reapply the antibiotic ointment and change the band-aid. After 3 days, there are no special precautions.
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Mild to moderate discomfort for a few days is normal. You can take acetaminophen, use ice, and take NSAIDs (unless you have been specifically advised to avoid NSAIDs). You may resume your usual activities as soon as you are feeling well enough to do so.
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If you have any concerns for infection or severe pain, contact your doctor or go urgent care.
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