Pneumarthrosis

Pneumarthrosis is a chronic joint disease in which air accumulates in the joint cavity.

Causes

Pneumarthrosis usually occurs after a joint injury, when its integrity is compromised. Possible causes include dislocations, fractures of the bones that form the joint, and surgical interventions on the joint.

It can also be caused by inflammation of the synovial membrane (synovitis), in which cavities filled with fluid are formed. When these cavities rupture, air can enter the joint.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of pneumarthrosis:

  1. joint pain that gets worse with movement

  2. crunching and clicking noises when moving

  3. limited joint mobility

  4. swelling of the joint due to air trapped in it

Diagnostics

To diagnose pneumarthrosis, the following is carried out:

  1. X-ray of a joint showing air

  2. arthroscopy - examination of a joint using an arthroscope

  3. synovial fluid analysis

Treatment

Treatment includes:

  1. puncture of the joint to remove accumulated air

  2. physiotherapy and exercise therapy

  3. taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

  4. in severe cases, surgery may be required

The prognosis for pneumarthrosis is generally favorable. With timely treatment, it is possible to prevent the development of complications and disability.



Pneumarthrosis: expansion of the concept of a joint

Pneumarthrosis is a medical term for a condition in which an air cavity or space forms in the joint cavity. The term is made up of a combination of the Latin prefix “pneumo-,” which means “air,” the Greek word “arthron,” which translates to “joint,” and the suffix “-oz,” which indicates the presence or nature of the condition.

Normally, the articular cavity is filled with synovial fluid, which serves as a lubricant and shock absorber for the articular surfaces. However, in rare cases, pneumarthrosis may occur when air, for whatever reason, enters the joint, creating an air space in it.

Pneumarthrosis can be caused by various factors. One of the most common causes is trauma, in which the bones or soft tissue of a joint are damaged, resulting in a hole or tear that allows air to enter. Pneumarthrosis can also be associated with medical procedures such as arthroscopy (endoscopic examination of the joint), in which air is used to create space to examine the joint.

Symptoms of pneumarthrosis can vary depending on the location and extent of its manifestation. Typically, patients complain of swelling, tenderness and a feeling of instability in the joint. In some cases, there may be a characteristic "clicking" or "buzz" sound when the joint moves, caused by the presence of an air pocket.

Various imaging modalities can be used to diagnose pneumarthrosis, including radiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT). These methods allow you to visualize the air space inside the joint and determine its exact size and location.

Treatment for pneumarthrosis depends on its cause and severity. In some cases, especially if pneumarthrosis is caused by injury, surgery may be necessary to close the hole or tear in the joint and eliminate the air space. In other cases, conservative treatment such as rest, ice packs, and anti-inflammatory medications may be sufficient.

Pneumarthrosis is a rare condition, and its diagnosis and treatment require professional medical intervention. If you have symptoms indicating the possible presence of pneumarthrosis, it is recommended to consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

In conclusion, pneumarthrosis is an extension of the concept of a joint in which an air space is formed within the joint cavity. This is a rare condition that can be caused by injury or medical procedures. Diagnosis of pneumarthrosis is carried out using various educational methods, and treatment depends on its cause and severity. If you suspect that you have pneumarthrosis, it is important to see a doctor for professional medical help.