What is it? A joint effusion may indicate any intra-articular fracture that has caused a hemarthrosis.
How does it present? Patient may present with joint swelling, pain, and difficulty walking after an injury.
Common exam findings: Generally an effusion is present, but other exam findings may be nonspecific and include tenderness near the fracture site or decreased range of motion.
Tests and treatment: Knee x-rays with an anteroposterior (AP), lateral and notch view should be performed. If fracture is not seen, but still suspected, then a computed tomography scan (CT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be performed.