Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection (CESI)
Cervical Epidural Steroid Injection (CESI) is a targeted therapeutic procedure that administers a potent anti-inflammatory steroid into the epidural space of the neck. Utilizing X-ray guidance, CESI addresses inflammation in spinal nerves, offering relief from pain and discomfort.
Conditions Treated with CESI.
CESI is utilized to mitigate various conditions causing neck and arm pain:
- Compressed nerves (“pinched nerves”)
- Radiculopathy
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Post-surgical neck pain
Procedure Overview Our meticulous procedure ensures safety and comfort:
- A local anesthetic numbs the area before the steroid is delivered with precision via fluoroscopic guidance.
- The entire process is closely monitored by our medical team.
- The procedure duration is typically 15 minutes, with additional time for pre and post-procedure protocols.
Medication Details
The injection consists of a corticosteroid, often dexamethasone, known for its strong anti-inflammatory effects. This minimally invasive treatment is well-tolerated, with discomfort being brief and manageable.
Efficacy and Outcomes
- Relief Timeline: Patients often begin to feel pain relief within a week, with the duration of relief varying from a few months to over a year.
- Procedure Frequency: Injections can be repeated up to 3-4 times a year based on individual response and medical advice.
Safety Profile
- Long-term Health: Local steroid injections have minimal systemic absorption, significantly reducing the risk of side effects compared to systemic steroids.
- Diabetes Management: Patients with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar, as there may be a temporary increase post-procedure.
Pre and Post-Procedure Guidelines
- Medications: Continue your prescribed medications; consult regarding anticoagulants.
- Fasting: Refrain from eating 6 hours before the procedure.
- Transportation: Arrange for a driver post-procedure.
- Sedation: Light sedation is available upon request.
- Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes; a gown may be provided if necessary.
- Activity Post-Procedure: You can resume light activities the same day and return to normal activities the following day.
- Showering: Allowed on the day of the procedure; avoid submerging the treated area for 24 hours.
- Follow-Up: A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled within 2-4 weeks.
Special Precautions
- Pregnancy: Due to risks associated with imaging studies, confirm non-pregnancy before proceeding with the procedure.
Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection (LESI): Alleviating Lower Back Pain
Lumbar Epidural Steroid Injection (LESI) offers relief for patients suffering from lower back pain. This procedure injects a corticosteroid into the epidural space in the lower spine, targeting inflammation that can cause pain and discomfort.
Conditions Treated with LESI
LESI is particularly effective for lower back conditions such as:
- Sciatica
- Lumbar disc herniation
- Degenerative disc disease
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
LESI Procedure Highlights
- Precision: Fluoroscopy guides the injection to the precise location in the epidural space.
- Duration: The procedure is quick, taking approximately 15 minutes, with a short period for observation afterward.
- Medication: A corticosteroid is used to decrease inflammation and provide pain relief.
Effectiveness and Care Following LESI
- Outcome: Pain relief may begin within a week and can last for months, varying by individual.
- Frequency: If beneficial, LESI can be repeated according to medical guidance, similar to CESI and LTESI.
Pre and Post-Procedure Considerations
- The pre and post-procedure guidelines for LESI are consistent with those for CESI and LTESI, ensuring a uniform approach to patient care and safety.
Lumbar Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injection (LTESI): Advanced Lower Back Pain Relief
Similar to CESI, LTESI targets pain in the lumbar region caused by inflamed nerve roots or disc issues. The transforaminal approach allows for precise delivery of medication near the source of inflammation.