Name of the Procedure:

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

Summary

This procedure involves injecting an anesthetic agent and/or steroid near the pudendal nerve. The pudendal nerve is located in the pelvis and is responsible for sensation and motor control in the pelvic region.

Purpose

The primary purpose of this procedure is to alleviate chronic pelvic pain, which could be due to various conditions like pudendal neuralgia or other types of pelvic floor dysfunction. The goal is to reduce pain and inflammation, thereby improving the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Chronic pelvic pain
• Pudendal neuralgia
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Pain during sitting
• Pain during sexual intercourse

Preparation

• Fasting may be required for a certain period before the procedure.
• Patients may need to stop taking certain medications, like blood thinners, prior to the injection.
• Pre-procedure assessments might include imaging studies like MRI or CT scans and nerve conduction studies.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, usually in a prone or lateral position.
2. The area is cleaned and sterilized to prevent infection.
3. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the injection site.
4. A needle, guided by imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, is carefully inserted near the pudendal nerve.
5. An anesthetic agent and/or steroid is injected to provide pain relief and reduce inflammation.
6. The needle is removed, and the injection site is cleaned and bandaged.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

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

Personnel

• Anesthesiologist or pain management specialist
• Nurse or medical assistant
• Radiologist (if imaging guidance is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Infection, bleeding, temporary numbness, or weakness in the pelvic area.
• Rare risks: Allergic reactions, nerve damage, prolonged pain, or worsening of symptoms.

Benefits

• Significant pain relief
• Reduced inflammation
• Improved quality of life
• The benefits can be realized almost immediately or within a few days after the procedure.

Recovery

• Patients may be monitored for a short period before being discharged.
• Instructions may include avoiding strenuous activities for 24-48 hours.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers may be suggested for post-procedure discomfort.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess the effectiveness of the injection.

Alternatives

• Physical therapy
• Medications such as oral analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs
• Surgical options for severe cases
• The pros of this procedure include targeted pain relief without the need for systemic medication, while cons may include its temporary nature and the need for repeat injections.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient may feel a brief pinch or pressure when the needle is inserted. Post-procedure, mild soreness at the injection site is common but usually resolves quickly. Pain management techniques, including ice packs and over-the-counter analgesics, can help with any discomfort.