RT Journal
A1 Strauch, Robert J.
T1 Comparison of Arthroscopic and Open Treatment of Septic Arthritis of the Wrist
JF The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery
JO The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery
YR 2009
FD November 1
VO 91
IS 11
SP 2772
OP 2772
DO 
UL http://dx.doi.org/
AB 
While aspiration is not easy in the shoulder or hip, aspiration of the wrist joint is usually a simple matter, often performed by nonsurgeons as well as orthopaedic surgeons. There have been no convincing studies supporting open or arthroscopic drainage of the septic wrist instead of needle aspiration. In my own practice, I have been quite satisfied with the use of needle aspiration and intravenous antibiotics for the treatment of the majority of patients with septic arthritis of the wrist. Therefore, while arthroscopic drainage of the septic wrist may be superior to open drainage, it may not be superior to needle aspiration alone—a point not discussed anywhere in the article.