Therapeutic Facet Nerve Block (Medial Branch Nerve Block)
What is a therapeutic facet nerve block?
A therapeutic facet nerve block is a diagnostic and possibly therapeutic procedure to determine if your back pain is being caused by the facet joints. Facet joints are the joints between the vertebra, which are present on both sides of the spine and provide flexibility to the spine. The joints are supplied by facet nerves (also called medial branch nerves).
What are the goals of a therapeutic facet nerve block?
The goals of a therapeutic facet nerve block are:
- To provide diagnosis
- To determine the possibility of treatment with frequency ablation (rhizotomy)
- To reduce and possibly eliminate pain
- To increase function
- To possibly eliminate the need for surgery
How will a therapeutic facet nerve block help my condition?
The therapeutic facet nerve block consists of a mixture of local anesthetic and corticosteroid medications. The local anesthetic helps to diagnose the pain is coming from the facet joints. The corticosteroid medication decreases inflammation and swelling that can cause pain and limit function.
What happens during a facet nerve block?
You will remain awake for the entire procedure.
Once in the procedure suite:
- You will be positioned lying face down (face up for upper cervical).
- The area for the injection will be washed with an antiseptic solution.
- A local anesthetic may be used to numb the injection site.
- You will be asked to remain as still as possible.
- You may feel pressure while the medication is injected.
How long is the procedure?
The procedure lasts about 10- 15 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
You will be monitored for approximately 15 minutes, because the medication takes some time to act. A nurse will review discharge and follow-up instructions with you.
You will need to carefully monitor the degree and duration of your pain relief. The day after your procedure, you may resume your normal daily activities.