intraartikulär

Intraartikulär, or intra-articular in English, describes something located within a joint or pertaining to the interior of a joint space. The term is used in anatomy, radiology and clinical medicine, particularly in orthopedics, rheumatology, and sports medicine. Intraarticular structures include cartilage, the synovial lining, menisci, ligaments, and the joint cavity with synovial fluid. Conditions and procedures may target inside the joint rather than surrounding tissues.

Intra-articular procedures involve accessing the joint space themselves. Common examples are intra-articular injections and aspirates. Intra-articular corticosteroid injections aim to reduce inflammation and pain in conditions such as osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis, while hyaluronic acid injections seek to improve lubrication in some knee OA cases. In many situations imaging guidance with ultrasound or fluoroscopy improves accuracy and safety. Arthrocentesis refers to joint aspiration for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.

Intraarticular fractures involve the joint surface and require careful management to restore joint congruity and function, often with reduction and fixation. Imaging modalities such as X-ray, MRI, or CT help assess intra-articular involvement and cartilage integrity. Distinguishing intra-articular from extra-articular pathology is important for prognosis and treatment planning, as intra-articular injuries may have a higher risk of post-traumatic arthritis if not properly treated.