Interventional Procedures

Interventional procedures for back pain are minimally invasive techniques that involve the use of needles, catheters, or other instruments to target specific structures in the spine and provide pain relief. These procedures are typically performed by the pain specialists of the Eisenhower Clinic. Here are some common types of interventional procedures for back pain:

1. Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs):
   • These injections deliver corticosteroids and sometimes local anesthetics into the epidural space around the spinal nerves.
   • ESIs are commonly used to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief for conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or radiculopathy.
   • Different types of ESI include interlaminar, transforaminal, and caudal approaches, depending on the specific target area.
2. Facet Joint Injections/Medial Branch Blocks:
   • These injections involve delivering local anesthetics and sometimes corticosteroids into the small joints at the back of the spine called facet joints.
   • Facet joint injections are performed to alleviate pain arising from facet joint arthritis, facet joint syndrome, or facet joint-related back pain.
   • Medial branch blocks, which target the nerves supplying the facet joints, can help identify the specific source of pain and guide subsequent treatment.
3. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA):
   • RFA uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to disrupt the nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals.
   • The procedure involves inserting a specialized needle near the targeted nerves and applying radiofrequency energy to create a lesion, thereby interrupting pain signals.
   • RFA is commonly used for facet joint pain, sacroiliac joint pain, and certain nerve-related back pain conditions.
4. Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS):
   • SCS involves implanting a small device near the spinal cord to deliver electrical impulses that interfere with pain signals.
   • The device consists of leads with electrodes that are placed in the epidural space or directly on the spinal cord.
   • SCS is used to manage chronic back pain, failed back surgery syndrome, and other conditions that are unresponsive to conservative treatments.

These interventional procedures are typically performed with the guidance of imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound to ensure accuracy and safety. The specific procedure recommended will depend on the individual’s diagnosis, symptoms, and response to conservative treatments. It is important to consult with a pain specialist of the Eisenhower Clinic to determine the most suitable interventional procedure for addressing back pain.