During a lumbar facet injection procedure, it is rare for sedation to be used. This means that you will likely be awake during the injections. However, please note that the specific approach may vary depending on the preferences of your healthcare provider and the specific circumstances of your case.
Before the procedure begins, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown. This is done to ensure cleanliness and to allow the healthcare providers to have easy access to the injection site. It is important to follow any instructions given to you regarding changing into the gown.
Before the injections are performed, you will be required to review and sign a consent form. This is a standard procedure to ensure that you are aware of the potential risks and benefits of the procedure, as well as any alternative treatment options that may be available. It is important to read the consent form carefully and ask any questions you may have before signing it. Your healthcare provider will be able to provide you with additional information and address any concerns you may have.
During the procedure, you will likely be positioned on your stomach or side, depending on the specific area being targeted for the injections. The healthcare provider will clean the injection site with an antiseptic solution to reduce the risk of infection.
The injections themselves involve the use of a small needle to deliver a local anesthetic and corticosteroid medication directly into the facet joint. The local anesthetic works to numb the area and provide immediate pain relief, while the corticosteroid has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and provide longer-lasting pain relief.
The healthcare provider will use fluoroscopy, a type of real-time X-ray, to guide the placement of the needle and ensure accurate delivery of the medication. This helps to increase the precision of the injections and improve their effectiveness.
It is common to feel some pressure or discomfort during the injections, as the needle is being inserted into the facet joint. However, the procedure is typically well-tolerated by patients and the discomfort is usually minimal. If you experience any significant pain or discomfort, it is important to inform your healthcare provider immediately so that they can make any necessary adjustments.
After the injections are complete, you will be monitored for a short period of time to ensure that you are stable and there are no immediate complications. You may be advised to rest for a short period of time before being allowed to go home.
It is important to note that the effects of the injections may vary from person to person. While some individuals may experience immediate pain relief, others may require multiple injections or additional treatment modalities to achieve the desired results. Your healthcare provider will be able to provide you with more information regarding the expected outcomes and any additional steps that may be necessary.
The lumbar facet injection procedure typically does not involve sedation, so you will likely be awake during the injections. You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and must review and sign a consent form before the procedure. The injections themselves involve the use of a small needle to deliver a local anesthetic and corticosteroid medication directly into the facet joint. The procedure is typically well-tolerated and discomfort is usually minimal. The effects of the injections may vary and additional treatments may be required for optimal pain relief.