Name of the Procedure:

Injection, Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate, up to 40 mg

• Common Names: Cortisone injection, Steroid shot
• Technical/Medical Term: Injection, Methylprednisolone Sodium Succinate (HCPCS Code: J2920)

Summary

This procedure involves injecting a corticosteroid called methylprednisolone sodium succinate into the body to reduce inflammation. It's commonly used to treat a variety of conditions that involve inflammation and overactive immune responses.

Purpose

The procedure is aimed at alleviating pain and reducing inflammation in conditions such as arthritis, allergic reactions, and certain autoimmune diseases. The expected outcome is a decrease in symptoms like swelling, redness, and discomfort, often providing relief for several weeks to months.

Indications

• Severe allergic reactions
• Asthma flare-ups
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Lupus and other autoimmune diseases
• Certain types of acute and chronic bursitis and tendonitis

Preparation

• Patients may be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments in the patient's current medication schedule may be needed.
• A thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests and imaging, might be necessary to rule out any contraindications.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be positioned comfortably, and the injection site will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
2. Using a sterile needle and syringe, up to 40 mg of methylprednisolone sodium succinate will be injected into the targeted area.
3. The needle is carefully removed, and a small bandage is placed over the injection site.

Tools/Equipment: Sterile needle, syringe, antiseptic solution

Anesthesia: Typically, local anesthesia (numbing cream or local injection) is used.

Duration

The procedure usually takes about 15-30 minutes, including preparation and post-injection observation.

Setting

This procedure is typically performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or a surgical center.

Personnel

• Primary Care Physician or Specialist (e.g., Rheumatologist, Allergist)
• Nurse or Medical Assistant for support

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Pain at the injection site, slight bruising, temporary flare of symptoms known as "post-injection flare."
• Rare Complications: Infection, allergic reaction, facial flushing, insomnia, high blood sugar.

Benefits

• Significant reduction in inflammation and pain.
• Improvement in joint and muscle function.
• Symptom relief can be noticed within a few days and can last for several weeks to months.

Recovery

• Post-procedure, patients are usually advised to rest the injected area for 24-48 hours.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the effectiveness and manage any adverse effects.
• Patients are generally able to return to their normal activities within a day or two.

Alternatives

• Oral corticosteroids
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Physical therapy
• Biologic injections, like TNF inhibitors
• Each option has its own pros and cons regarding the speed of relief, side effects, and suitability depending on the patient's specific condition.

Patient Experience

During the injection, you might feel a slight pinch or burning sensation. Post-procedure, mild discomfort at the injection site is common but usually subsides within a few hours. Pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and applying cold packs to the area.