Is Hemarthrosis an Emergency?

Hemarthrosis causes pain and swelling of the joint. If not treated, it can lead to permanent damage.

Is hemarthrosis serious?

If it progresses, hemarthrosis can inflame and thin cartilage, causing pain, weakness, degenerative arthritis, or additional bleeding into the joint. In severe or prolonged cases, the condition can create permanent changes in joint structure and function.

How do you test for hemarthrosis?

Hemarthrosis is bleeding into a joint cavity. Its presence can be suspected based upon patient history, physical exam, and multiple imaging modalities; however, the best way to diagnose hemarthrosis is with arthrocentesis with synovial fluid analysis. Lipohemarthrosis the presence of fat and blood in the joint cavity.