Name of the Procedure:

Injection(s), anesthetic agent(s) and/or steroid; other peripheral nerve or branch
Common name(s): Peripheral Nerve Block, Nerve Block Injection

Summary

A Peripheral Nerve Block involves injecting an anesthetic agent and/or steroid into the area around a specific peripheral nerve or nerve branch. This procedure is designed to relieve pain and inflammation associated with various medical conditions.

Purpose

The purpose of the Peripheral Nerve Block is to alleviate chronic pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility and quality of life by targeting specific nerves outside of the spinal cord and brain.

Indications

• Chronic pain conditions, such as neuropathies or neuralgias
• Acute pain from injuries or surgeries
• Inflammatory conditions like arthritis or bursitis
• Patients who have not responded well to other pain management strategies

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments may be necessary, especially if blood thinners are involved.
• Diagnostic tests such as MRIs or CT scans may be required for precise nerve localization.

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The patient is positioned comfortably, and the skin over the injection site is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia may be applied to numb the injection area.
3. Guidance: Using imaging techniques like ultrasound or fluoroscopy, the healthcare provider locates the targeted nerve.
4. Injection: A thin needle is inserted into the skin and carefully guided to the nerve. The anesthetic agent and/or steroid is then injected.
5. Completion: The needle is removed, and a small bandage is applied to the injection site.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is commonly performed in an outpatient clinic, pain management center, or hospital setting.

Personnel

• Anesthesiologist or Pain Management Specialist
• Nurses
• Radiology Technician (if imaging guidance is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common: Temporary numbness, soreness at the injection site, bleeding
• Rare: Infection, nerve damage, allergic reactions to the medications

Benefits

• Pain relief may be immediate or develop over a few days.
• Reduced inflammation and improved mobility contribute to a better quality of life.
• Benefits can last from several weeks to months, depending on the condition being treated.

Recovery

• Patients are usually monitored for a short period after the procedure.
• Post-procedure instructions include avoiding strenuous activity for 24 hours.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess efficacy and plan further treatment if necessary.
• Most patients can resume normal activities within a day or two.

Alternatives

• Oral pain medications or anti-inflammatory drugs
• Physical therapy
• Other injection therapies such as epidural steroid injections
• Surgery for more severe cases of nerve pain

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, patients may feel slight pressure or a mild discomfort from the needle insertion.
• Post-procedure soreness is typical but usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
• Close communication with the healthcare team ensures adequate pain management and comfort throughout the process.