The approach to diagnosis depends on the joint involved.
 While aspiration of the joint is considered the gold standard of treatment, this can be difficult for joints such as the hip.
 Ultrasound may be used both to verify the existence of an effusion and to guide aspiration.
The approach to diagnosis depends on the joint involved.  While aspiration of the joint is considered the gold standard of treatment, this can be difficult for joints such as the hip.  Ultrasound may be used both to verify the existence of an effusion and to guide aspiration.
Joint effusion