This is a certain type of epidural injection using a small amount of anti-inflammatory steroid into epidural space (outside the
spinal cord) in the neck or back area. This procedure has the capacity of treating or at least decreasing the inflammation or
irritation of the spinal cord or spinal nerves. A herniated or bulging disks, bone spurs, narrowed spinal canal (spinal stenosis),
arthritis changes, or scar tissue from previous spine surgeries (arachnioditis) all can irritate the spinal cord or spinal nerves
and cause pain, numbness, and weakness. This type of pain is referred to as a radicular pain and is felt in the area of the
body that the irritated nerves(s) go to (innervate). If the irritation or inflammation is treated effectively, then possibly all of the
pain, numbness, or weakness will resolve. It can prevent or at least postpone the need for surgery.
An IV will need to be placed before the procedure. Patient will be placed prone (face down). The upper back and neck area
will be cleansed with an antiseptic, and numbed at the desired level. Then using live X-ray (fluoroscopy) the needle will be
guided into the epidural space, and the steroid, often mixed with local anesthetic (like Novocain) and various amount of normal
saline (as a volumizer); will be injected. The patient may feel some pressure and/or some increased pain symptoms with the
injection. This will subside by the end of the procedure. Radicontrast solution is always used to confirm proper needle
placement before the steroid injection.
This procedure can be associated with transient feelings of tingling, warmth, numbness, and weakness in the extremities for
up to several hours after the injection. The procedure may take up to 30 minutes. After the injection, the will be observed for
15 minutes and the nurse will monitor the blood pressure and pulse. A Band-Aid will be applied to the injection site. A nurse
will review the discharge instructions with the patient before going home.
