Needle guide in shoulder arthroscopy – a technique

Abstract

Distension of joint with fluid is often used to facilitate insertion of arthroscope. This may prove difficult at times in the shoulder joint, as unlike the knee, it is deeply situated, making extravasation of fluid outside the capsule, a common occurrence. This is especially true in very tight joints and is often a problem for beginners. We describe here a very effective and simple technique where a needle is used to distend the shoulder before the insertion of the arthroscope.

The effectiveness of ultrasound guided hydrodistension and physiotherapy in the treatment of frozen shoulder/adhesive capsulitis in primary care: a single centre service evaluation

“…The posterior approach is often used with ultrasound to perform injections because it allows good needle and target visualisation. 24–26…”

“…The posterior approach is often used with ultrasound to perform injections because it allows good needle and target visualisation. [24][25][26] The patient was positioned in lateral decubitus position with the shoulder and elbow semi-flexed resting on a pillow for comfort. Lidocaine (10 mL 1%) was administered in real time as a hypoechoic volume within the glenohumeral joint, followed by 1 mL of 40 mg triamcinolone acetonide and, finally, 20 mL of 0.9% sodium chloride, slowly, to allow acceptance of the volume into the capsule.…”