STL Pain Management - Transforaminal nerve root block, Dr. Mahendra Gunapooti MD

Transforaminal Selective Nerve Root Block

What is it about?

A selective transforaminal nerve root block is useful when an Epidural injection has failed to help due to nerve root irritation. Indications for a block include one of the following -- Foraminal Stenosis, Recess Stenosis, Lateral Disc Protrusions or Post Operative Epidural adhesions.

The whole idea is to inject the medicine as close to the affected area as possible in order to give an immediate and longlasting relief from the condition.

Before your scheduled visit/procedure

If you are taking any anticoagulant (blood thinner) medication like Coumadin, Plavix or Ticlid, please inform the physician or nurse before scheduling the procedure
You may not eat 4 hours before the procedure
You are not permitted to drive after the procedure and must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Please call the pan management service if you are running a fever, flu, have a cold or any infection.

How is it performed?

Under Fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a thin needle is placed in the area of the involved nerve. You may or may not feel a mild 'electric shock' sensation when needle reaches proper position. Once needle reaches the intended position, physician injects the medication around the nerve root.

After Care

You may feel numbness, tingling and/or weakness in leg or arm (depending on the site of procedure). These effects usually wear off in 6-8 hours. You may resume normal daily activity the following day. Please call us if you continue to have pain or notce swelling, redness, fever or experience a new onset of weaknesss