What are epidural steroid injections?
An intervention involving the injection of anti-inflammatory
medication to help relieve pain and numbness of the back and legs.
How long will the procedure take?
The procedure itself takes only about 10 minutes, and you will be
monitored for 30 minutes following the procedure, but you should plan on
spending 1½ hours for your initial visit to allow time
for discussion and questions. Subsequent visits and procedures will only
take 30-45 minutes.
How is the procedure done?
Typically this is performed with you sitting ont he side of a
stretcher. In addition to the CRNA, a nurse will be with you the entire
procedure.
Preparation for the
procedure:
You may eat your meals and take your
medications as you normally would,
except for these medications listed below.
Plavix: Must be discontinued for 7 days prior to
the procedure.
Last dose on _______. (procedure on day 8)
Coumadin: Must be discontinued for 4 days prior to
procedure.
Last dose on _______. (procedure on day 5)
Ticlid: Must be discontinued for 14 days
prior to procedure.
Last dose on ______. (procedure on day 15)
Lovenox: Must be discontinued for at least 24 hours
prior to procedure.
Aggrenox: Must be discontinued for 7 days prior to
procedure.
Last dose on ______. (procedure on day 8)
Make sure to check with your physician about stopping these medications!
No driving for 4 hours following the
procedure. Please arrange to have someone
drive you home or make other arrangements (handibus).
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