Exam time: 30-60 minutes
Most exams require patient to remain at CAI 30 minutes post-procedure.
This diagnostic and therapeutic examination uses contrast dye to
pinpoint the needle placement within the facet joints of the spine.
It also uses therapeutic steroids and local anesthetic to decrease
the pain and inflammation that may be present in this area. Pain
relief from a facet joint injection procedure varies from minimal
to long-term, depending on the specific symptoms.
The procedure takes 10-30 minutes and the patient will be asked
to wait 30-40 minutes afterward before leaving. Using a thin needle
and fluoroscopy for guidance, the radiologist will place contrast,
anesthetic, and steroid into the facet joint. During the procedure,
the patient may feel some slight pressure or discomfort.
Preparation/Restrictions:
- CAI will contact patient 24-48 hours in advance to review medications/allergies
- Stop blood thinners 48 hours in advance; stop pain medication
eight hours in advance
- Liquids and/or a light snack before the injection.
- Patient should bring previous films
- Patient will need a driver.
Side Effects:
Side effects of the steroid medications--which affect only 5% of patients
and disappear within 1-3 days--include facial flushing, insomnia, and
occasional low grade fever.
Due to the effects of certain medications, the patient's driving
reflexes may be impaired. Consequently, he/she will need a driver
after the exam and should arrange for this in advance or request
assistance from CAI.
| Frequently
Asked Questions: |
Q: Is the procedure painful?
A: During the procedure, patients may feel some slight pressure
or discomfort.
Q: When will the pain relief medication take effect?
A: The patient may experience numbness and/or relief from spine
pain for up to six hours after the injection. His/her usual symptoms
may then return and may possibly be worse than usual for a day
or two. The beneficial effects of the steroids usually require
2-3 days to take hold, but may take as long as a week.
Q: What if the pain relief doesn't last very long?
A: If the injection blocked the patient's pain effectively--but
only for a short time-- additional injections may be ordered.
Other procedures, such as, radiofrequency rhizotomy, may be considered
for more permanent pain relief. |
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