Exam time: 30-60 minutes
Most exams require the patient to remain at our facility 30 minutes after the procedure. If multiple injections are ordered, additional time may be needed to complete the procedure.
This diagnostic procedure identifies the source of irritation in the nerves that run along the outer edge of the facet joints within the spine. If multiple levels of pain exist within the facets, several injections may be required on different days to pinpoint the pain source in each location. By anesthetizing these nerves, the physician can determine whether the nerve irritation would be best treated by medication or other procedures.
PREPARATION/RESTRICTIONS:
- Stop blood thinners 4 days in advance; stop pain medication 8 hours in advance.
- The patient should bring along any previous imaging studies on film or cd related to the body part being treated.
- The 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 an increase in blood sugar.