Point-of-Care Ultrasound-Guided Arthrocentesis of a Pediatric Septic Ankle

Abstract

Septic arthritis is one potential cause of pediatric joint effusion and pain that may lead to significant morbidity. We present a case where point-of-care ultrasound was used to identify and aspirate a joint effusion in a pediatric patient with septic arthritis of the ankle, facilitating timely diagnosis and care. We review the technique for arthrocentesis of the ankle and literature on point-of-care ultrasound in the diagnosis of pediatric septic arthritis.