LUMBAR TRANSFORAMINAL EPIDURAL STEROID INJECTION

This injection procedure is performed to relieve low back and radiating leg pain. The steroid medication can reduce the swelling and inflammation caused by spinal conditions such as spinal stenosis and herniated discs.

Vertebra and Nerve Root Located

The patient lies face down. A cushion is placed under the stomach area to comfort and flex the back. This position causes the spine to open, allowing for easier access to the epidural space. The physician uses a fluoroscope to locate the appropriate lumbar vertebra and nerve root.

Tissue Anesthetized

A local anesthetic numbs the skin. All the tissue down to the surface of the vertebral transverse process is anesthetized.

Needle Inserted

The physician slides a thin bent needle with a slightly curved point through the anesthetized track.

Foraminal Space Accessed

With the aid of a fluoroscope, the physician carefully guides the needle into the foraminal space near the nerve root.

Contrast Dye Injected

The physician injects a contrast solution and uses the fluoroscope to confirm the correct location of the needle tip.

Steroids Injected

A steroid-anesthetics mix is injected into the foraminal epidural space, bathing the painful nerve root with soothing medication.

End of Procedure

The needle is removed, and a small band-aid is used to cover the tiny needle surface wound. In some cases it may be necessary to repeat the procedure as many as three times to provide the full benefit of the medication. However many patients feel significant relief from only one or two injections.