What does the term 'joint aspiration' mean?

The term 'joint aspiration' refers specifically to the process of removing excess fluid from a joint. This procedure is often performed to relieve pressure, reduce swelling, and improve joint function when there is an accumulation of fluid due to conditions such as arthritis, injury, or infection. During the procedure, a needle is inserted into the joint space, and the fluid is aspirated, allowing for both diagnostic testing and therapeutic relief.

The other options pertain to different surgical or medical procedures: inserting a joint prosthesis involves replacing a damaged joint with an artificial implant, repairing ligaments refers to surgical interventions aimed at restoring the integrity of torn or damaged ligaments, and fusing two bones describes an operation to join them together to eliminate movement at that joint, often to alleviate pain. Each of these procedures serves distinct purposes and does not involve the removal of fluid from a joint, which is the defining characteristic of joint aspiration.