What Is It?
An epidural procedure is a medical intervention commonly used for pain management during childbirth, surgery, or for chronic pain conditions. It involves the administration of medication into the epidural space, which is the area surrounding the spinal cord and the nerves that exit it. This procedure is typically performed by an anesthesiologist, pain management specialist, or interventional radiologist. For chronic pain management, epidural injections can be used to deliver anti-inflammatory medications or steroids directly to the affected area, reducing inflammation and alleviating pain.
How Is It Treated?
The procedure involves the following steps:
- Insertion of Epidural Needle – Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray guidance) or CT guidance, the radiologist inserts a hollow needle through the skin and into the epidural space in the spine.
- Confirmation – Once the needle is in place, a small amount of contrast may be injected to confirm correct needle placement. This helps ensure that the medication will be delivered to the intended area.
- Medication Administration – After confirming the correct placement, the desired medication, such as a local anesthetic or steroid, is injected into the epidural space through the needle. The medication works to numb pain or reduce inflammation, depending on the purpose of the procedure.
- Monitoring – The patient is closely monitored throughout the procedure to watch for any adverse reactions or complications. Vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels may be monitored continuously.
How Do I Prep For The Procedure?
The patient is positioned appropriately, typically lying prone on their side or sitting up. The back is cleaned with an antiseptic solution to reduce the risk of infection.
A local anesthetic is injected into the skin and tissue to numb the area where the epidural needle will be inserted. This helps minimize discomfort during the procedure.
What Happens After The Procedure?
After the epidural procedure, patients are typically monitored for a period of time in a recovery area. They may experience temporary numbness or weakness in the lower body, which gradually wears off as the medication dissipates.
It’s important for patients to follow any post-procedure instructions provided by their healthcare provider, which may include restrictions on activities and information about potential side effects or complications to watch for.
