What is the medical term meaning surgical puncture of a joint?

Arthrocentesis is the surgical puncture of a joint space to remove synovial fluid.

Basically put a needle in the joint, and then aspirate the fluid. This is usually a diagnostic and not a therapeutic procedure. The fluid is then sent for investigation. It can be a therapeutic procedure, though it won't cure, but it may relieve pain (for example with Arthritis).

As infection in a joint is to be avoided at all costs, this should be done under the most aseptic circumstances possible.
arthrocentesis
Arthrocentesis (arthr = joint + centesis = puncture) is procedure where a syringe is used to collect synovial fluid from the joint capsule for examination. It is also known as joint aspiration. The procedure is used to diagnose gout, arthritis and synovial infections.
Arthrocentesis (arthr = joint + centesis = puncture) is procedure where a syringe is used to collect synovial fluid from the joint capsule for examination. It is also known as joint aspiration. The procedure is used to diagnose gout, arthritis and synovial infections.