Name of the Procedure:

Injection(s), anesthetic agent(s) and/or steroid; suprascapular nerve

Summary

This procedure involves injecting anesthetic or steroid medications into the suprascapular nerve to alleviate shoulder pain. It is a minimally invasive technique designed to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.

Purpose

The procedure is used to treat chronic shoulder pain, often due to conditions such as rotator cuff injuries, arthritis, or bursitis. The goal is to decrease pain and improve shoulder function.

Indications

• Persistent shoulder pain unresponsive to conservative treatments like physical therapy and medications
• Diagnosis of conditions such as rotator cuff tear, shoulder arthritis, or bursitis
• Patient experiences significant discomfort impacting daily activities and quality of life

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to medication schedules may be necessary, especially with blood thinners.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests like MRI or ultrasound may be conducted to pinpoint the injection site.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned to allow easy access to the shoulder area.
2. The skin over the injection site is cleaned and sterilized.
3. Local anesthetic may be applied to numb the skin.
4. Using imaging guidance (fluoroscopy or ultrasound), a needle is carefully inserted near the suprascapular nerve.
5. Once properly positioned, anesthetic agents, steroids, or a combination of both are injected.
6. The needle is removed and a bandage is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes around 15 to 30 minutes.

Setting

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

Personnel

• Physician: Usually an anesthesiologist, pain specialist, or orthopedic doctor
• Nurse: Assists with preparation and monitoring

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Temporary pain at injection site, bleeding, infection
• Rare risks: Nerve damage, allergic reaction to medications, steroid-related side effects

Benefits

• Pain relief can be noticeable within a few days to weeks
• Improved shoulder mobility and quality of life
• Reduced need for oral pain medications

Recovery

• Patients can usually go home shortly after the procedure.
• Rest and limited use of the shoulder may be advised for the first 24-48 hours.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess the effectiveness.

Alternatives

• Physical therapy and exercise programs
• Oral medications (NSAIDs, analgesics)
• Other injections (e.g., cortisone shots)
• Surgical interventions for more severe cases
• Pros: Each alternative carries different levels of invasiveness, recovery time, and effectiveness
• Cons: Some may have longer recovery times or less immediate pain relief

Patient Experience

• The patient might feel a brief sting or pressure during the injection.
• Post-procedure, some soreness or numbness at the injection site can occur, but it is typically temporary.
• Pain relief may begin within a few days, improving activities and quality of life. Pain management options are available if discomfort persists.