Exam time: 30-60 minutes
Most exams require the patient to remain at our facility 30 minutes post-procedure.
HARDWARE INJECTIONS
When metal implants from previous surgeries appear to be causing discomfort, a trigger injection may be performed. During this procedure, local anesthetic is injected into the hardware screw implants. If symptoms remain, the physician will want to explore alternative sources for the pain.
POINT OF PAIN INJECTIONS
Trigger injections may also be performed in any soft tissue areas of the lower back, lower neck, and shoulders where nerves are inflamed. The radiologist injects both local anesthetic and steroid medication to relieve nerve irritation.
PREPARATION/RESTRICTIONS:
- Stop blood thinners 4-5 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.
Due to the effects of certain medications, the patient's driving reflexes may be impaired. Consequently, the person should arrange for a driver in advance or request assistance from our facility.