a.k.a. Foraminal Block
Exam time: 40 minutes
Most exams require patient to remain at CAI 30 minutes post-procedure.
This diagnostic and therapeutic injection into the sheath surrounding
a nerve root is done to decrease pain temporarily and to define it
more precisely. The exam uses therapeutic steroid and local anesthetic
to decrease pain and inflammation. Pain relief from the procedure
varies from minimal to long-term, depending on the specific symptoms.
Symptoms must be present for this procedure to be effective. If
the patient is not experiencing symptoms prior to the procedure,
he/she should cancel the appointment and reschedule the exam once
the symptoms have returned.
Patients will remain awake throughout the test. A radiologist will
use a thin needle to place anesthetic and steroid into the nerve
sheath and will check the needle position by means of a fluoroscope
connected to a television monitor. Contrast material is placed into
the nerve sheath to document the needle position.
During the injection, patients may feel pressure or pain.
Preparation/Restrictions:
- Symptoms must be present at time of appointment
- Stop blood thinners 4-5 days in advance; stop pain medication
8 hours in advance
- 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, occasional
low grade fever, and increase in blood sugar.
Due to the effects of certain medications, the patient's driving
reflexes may be impaired. Consequently, he/she should arrange for
a driver 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. He/she may experience numbness and/or relief
from symptoms for up to six hours after the injection. When
the anesthetic wears off, the usual symptoms may return.
Q: How will the patient feel after the procedure?
A: The area around the injection site will feel numb, warm, or
asleep.
Q: When will the pain relief medication take effect?
A: The steroids usually require 2-3 days to provide pain relief.
If there is no change in the pain symptoms after a week, investigation
into other potential pain sources may be warranted. |
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