Name of the Procedure:

Injection(s) of Diagnostic or Therapeutic Substance(s)

Common name(s): Therapeutic Injection, Diagnostic Injection
Technical/Medical terms: Intra-articular Injection, Epidural Steroid Injection, Joint Injection

Summary

This procedure involves the injection of substances such as anesthetics, antispasmodics, opioids, steroids, or other solutions using a needle or catheter. It may also include the use of contrast material for precise localization but does not involve neurolytic substances.

Purpose

• Medical Condition: Used to diagnose or treat inflammatory conditions, pain, muscle spasms, and various orthopedic or neurological conditions.
• Goals/Outcomes: Alleviation of pain, reduction of inflammation, improvement of function, and diagnostic clarity.

Indications

• Chronic pain
• Arthritis
• Inflammatory joint disorders
• Spinal conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis
• Certain soft tissue injuries

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to current medications, particularly blood thinners.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic assessments, such as imaging studies (MRI, X-ray).
• Complete a medical history and physical examination.

Procedure Description

1. Positioning: Patient is positioned to allow optimal access to the injection site.
2. Cleaning: The injection area is cleaned and sterilized.
3. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia may be applied to numb the injection site.
4. Needle/Catheter Placement: Using guidance methods (ultrasound or fluoroscopy), a needle or catheter is accurately placed.
5. Injection: The therapeutic or diagnostic substance is injected. If contrast is used, it helps to ensure correct positioning.
6. Completion: The needle or catheter is removed, and the site is covered with a small bandage.

Duration

Approximately 15 to 45 minutes.

Setting

Typically performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Physician or specialist (e.g., anesthesiologist, radiologist, orthopedic surgeon)
• Nurse or medical assistant
• Radiologic technologist (if imaging guidance is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Pain at the injection site, temporary worsening of symptoms, bruising.
• Rare Risks: Infection, allergic reaction, bleeding, nerve damage, inadvertent injection into unintended areas.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Pain relief, reduced inflammation, improved joint or tissue function.
• Realization: Benefits can be seen immediately or within a few days to weeks, depending on the substance used.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Rest the area for a short period, apply ice if needed.
• Recovery Time: Most patients resume normal activities within a day, but heavy lifting or strenuous activities may be restricted for a few days.
• Follow-up: A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to assess the efficacy of the injection.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Physical therapy, oral medications, surgical interventions.
• Pros and Cons: Less invasive than surgery but may offer temporary relief compared to long-term physical therapy or permanent surgical solutions.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: The patient might feel some pressure or slight discomfort when the needle is inserted and the substance is injected.
• After the Procedure: Mild soreness or temporary pain relief is common. Pain management strategies may include over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications.