Sometimes the fluid that accumulates within the joint needs to be removed by the orthopedic specialist. This is done using a sterile technique called joint aspiration. The skin is washed off with iodine solution and locally anesthetized with the Xylocaine. A needle is then inserted into the intra-articular space, that is within the joint itself, and the fluid is carefully removed. Oftentimes at the end of this procedure a small amount of cortisone is instilled when appropriate.