The sympathetic nerves, positioned along either side of the spine, play crucial roles in governing involuntary body functions, such as regulating body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and sweating. In certain circumstances, after specific injuries or illnesses, these nerves might dysfunction, leading to chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS) which can manifest as leg pain. An Epidural Sympathetic Nerve Block is a specialized procedure where a steroid medication is administered near these sympathetic nerves to counteract or reduce the leg pain.

Procedure Overview

Preparation:

Upon patient arrival, the medical team collects vital health information including allergies, current medications, blood pressure, pulse, and other essential data. It is crucial for patients to notify the team of any specific conditions or allergies. For some, an intravenous (IV) line might be established to allow for the administration of fluids or mild sedatives. Temperature strips applied to the feet will help in monitoring the success of the procedure.

The Procedure:

Inside a specialized X-ray room, patients are positioned comfortably on an examination table. The skin area is then cleaned and numbed using a local anesthetic. With the aid of X-ray guidance, a fine needle is meticulously placed into the epidural space of the spine. A contrast dye might be introduced to confirm the accurate positioning of the needle before the medication is injected. The procedure is typically concise, often completed in just a few minutes.

Post-procedure Protocols:

Post-procedure, an hour-long observation is generally recommended due to potential leg numbness or weakness caused by the anesthetic. The medical team provides detailed discharge instructions, explaining any required follow-up measures. For safety reasons, it is advised that patients have someone available to drive them home and refrain from driving for at least three hours after the procedure.

Recovery & Aftercare

After the procedure, rest and avoidance of strenuous activities can be beneficial. Resumption of work is typically possible the next day, with physical activities recommencing a day later. Temporary discomfort post-procedure may occur for some; application of ice and over-the-counter medications can assist in providing relief. Improvements in leg pain are generally noticeable within a week.

For a comprehensive consultation or to learn more about the Epidural Sympathetic Nerve Block, please reach out to Dr. BSV Raju’s team today.