What is a Selective Nerve Root Injection (SNRI)?
A Selective Nerve Root Injection is a more precise injection done under fluoroscopic guidance (X-Ray) using anesthetic with a long lasting steroid (“cortisone”) around the nerve root as it exits the spinal column. This injection is sometimes referred to as a transforaminal injection. What is the purpose of it? This injection is used as a diagnostic as well as a therapeutic injection. It helps us determine if the nerve is irritated by “numbing” the nerve. The steroid will therapeutically reduce the inflammation and pain caused by pressure on the nerve. How long does the injection take? The actual injection takes only approximately 10 minutes. What is actually injected? The injection consists of a mixture of local anesthetic (like lidocaine) and the steroid medication. Prior to injecting the medicine, a small volume of contrast dye is used to confirm proper needle placement. Will the injection hurt? This procedure is done under local anesthesia. You may feel a “bee sting” when the local
