Thoracic Epidural Injection

This procedure is an injection performed to relieve pain in the upper back. The back is cleaned and sterilized, and a local anesthetic is administered to numb the tissue of the injection site. The physician uses an x-ray device called a fluoroscope to guide a needle down to the vertebra that is causing the pain. The needle is carefully pushed into the epidural space, a contrast solution is then injected to identify the needle’s position. The physician injects an anesthetic mix into the epidural space, covering the painful areas with soothing medication. This mixture will help reduce inflammation and reduce pain. The needle is then removed, and the injection site may be covered with a small bandage. Patients can expect extended pain relief usually within three to five days after the injection. Many patients get significant relief from only one or two injections