Epidural Steroid Injection

Patient Evaluation

Before recommending an epidural steroid injection, we will conduct a thorough evaluation of the patient's medical history, current symptoms, and diagnostic imaging results (such as MRI or CT scans). This helps ensure that the injection is appropriate and likely to provide benefit.

Informed Consent

We will discusses the risks, benefits, and alternatives of the procedure with the patient, ensuring they understand what to expect and have the opportunity to ask questions. Informed consent is crucial to ensure the patient's understanding and cooperation.

Preparation

We will review the patient's medical records, including any relevant medications or allergies. We will also instruct the patient on pre-procedural preparations, such as fasting or temporarily discontinuing certain medications that could interfere with the procedure or increase bleeding risk.

Procedure Setup

We will prepare the necessary equipment, including the imaging technology (such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound) used to guide the needle placement. They ensure the procedure room is sterile and equipped for patient safety.

Patient Positioning

We position the patient appropriately for the injection, typically lying face down, depending on the targeted spinal level. Proper positioning is crucial for accurate needle placement and patient comfort.

Local Anesthesia

The doctor administers a local anesthetic drug to numb the skin and deeper tissues around the injection site. This helps minimize discomfort during the procedure.

Injection Technique

Using imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy, we carefully advance a thin needle toward the epidural space near the affected nerve root. We use contrast dye to confirm the needle's position before injecting the steroid medication. Precise needle placement is essential for optimal therapeutic effect and safety. We will release the nerve causing pain using specific drugs to improve the outcome.

Steroid Injection

Once the needle is properly positioned, we deliver the steroid medication into the epidural space. The steroid acts to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or sciatica. We use very mild steroid in minimum doses.

Post-procedure Monitoring

After the injection, we monitor the patient for any immediate complications, such as allergic reactions or nerve damage. They provide post-procedure instructions to the patient, including activity restrictions and potential side effects to watch for.

Follow-up Care

Depending on the patient's response to the injection, we schedule follow-up appointments to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and determine the need for additional injections or alternative therapies.

Throughout the entire process, we prioritize patient safety, comfort, and optimal therapeutic outcomes. We communicate effectively with the patient, address any concerns or questions, and strive to provide personalized care tailored to the individual's needs and preferences.