Name of the Procedure:

Injection(s) of diagnostic or therapeutic substance(s)

Summary

This procedure involves injecting diagnostic or therapeutic substances, such as anesthetics, antispasmodics, opioids, steroids, or other solutions, into the body. It does not include neurolytic substances and may involve the use of needles or catheters to deliver the substance and contrast material for proper localization.

Purpose

The procedure is designed to diagnose or treat various medical conditions by delivering medications directly to the targeted area. The goal is to provide pain relief, reduce inflammation, or relax muscles, thereby improving the patient’s symptoms and quality of life.

Indications

• Chronic pain conditions
• Acute pain management
• Muscle spasms
• Inflammatory conditions
• Diagnostic purposes for unexplained pain

Appropriate for patients experiencing the above symptoms who have not responded adequately to other treatments.

Preparation

• Follow any fasting instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Adjust medications as advised, particularly blood thinners.
• Undergo necessary diagnostic tests such as blood work or imaging studies.

Procedure Description

1. The procedure area is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Local anesthesia may be administered to numb the injection site.
3. A needle or catheter is guided to the target area, sometimes using imaging techniques like fluoroscopy for precise placement.
4. The diagnostic or therapeutic substance is injected.
5. If contrast material is used, it helps in visual confirmation of the correct location.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Physician (often a pain specialist or anesthesiologist)
• Nurse
• Radiologic technologist (if imaging is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common: localized pain or discomfort, bleeding, infection at the injection site
• Rare: allergic reactions, nerve damage, systemic infection Immediate medical attention is necessary for severe complications.

Benefits

• Immediate or gradual pain relief
• Reduced inflammation or muscle spasms
• Improved mobility and function
• Diagnostic clarity for unexplained pain conditions

Recovery

• You may be monitored for a short time after the injection to ensure there are no adverse reactions.
• Expect to rest for the remainder of the day.
• Avoid strenuous activities for 24-48 hours.
• Follow-up appointments to assess effectiveness and plan further treatments if necessary.

Alternatives

• Oral medications (pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs)
• Physical therapy
• Surgical interventions
• Other interventional pain management techniques

Each alternative has its own benefits and drawbacks, best discussed with your healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, you may feel a brief sting from the needle and pressure as the substance is injected. Post-procedure discomfort is typically mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Rest and relaxation, along with any prescribed medications, will aid in a smoother recovery.