How is the epidural steroid injection performed?
An epidural steroid injection usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes. The patient lies flat on an x-ray table on their abdomen. Prior to the epidural injection, the skin is numbed with lidocaine, which is similar to the novocaine that the dentist uses, this is sometimes called a “local” anesthetic. The doctors at The Southeastern Spine Institute Use a fluoroscopy (live x-ray) during the procedure. A fluoroscopy is considered important in guiding the needle into the epidural space, as controlled studies have found that medication is misplaced in up to 34% of epidural steroid injections that are done without fluoroscopy. Once the needle is in the exact position, the epidural steroid solution is injected. Following the injection, the patient is usually monitored for 15 to 20 minutes before being discharged to go home. Sedatives are rarely necessary because the epidural steroid injection procedure is usually not uncomfortable. If you experience anxiety or discomfort a sedative can be used
