Relative contraindications Severe bleeding diathesis, which may need to be corrected before arthrocentesis; routine therapeutic anticoagulation is not a contraindication, particularly if infection is suspected Complications of MTP Joint Arthrocentesis Complications are uncommon and include Infection Damage to tendon, nerve, or blood vessels (traumatic tap) Equipment for MTP Joint Arthrocentesis Antiseptic solution (eg, chlorhexidine, povidone iodine, isopropyl alcohol), sterile gauze, and gloves Nonsterile underpads Local anesthetic (eg, 1% lidocaine, 25 - to 30-gauge needle, 3 - to 5-mL syringe) For joint aspiration, a 25-mm (1-inch) 22-gauge needle and a 5-mL syringe Appropriate containers for collection of fluid for laboratory tests (eg, cell count, crystals, cultures) For intra-articular therapeutic injection, a syringe containing a corticosteroid (eg, triamcinolone acetonide 10 mg or methylprednisolone acetate 20 mg) and / or a long-acting anesthetic (eg, 0.25% bupivacaine), a 22-gauge needle, and a hemostat to help switch syringes, if needed Additional Considerations for MTP Joint Arthrocentesis Enlist an assistant to provide flexion and traction to the toe.