Sympathetic Nerve Blocks & RFTC

A sympathetic nerve block is a highly effective procedure involving the injection of local anesthetic and cortisone into the sympathetic nerve tissue, which is part of the Sympathetic Nervous System. These nerves are located on either side of the spine in the back.

Purpose of the Sympathetic Nerve Block

The primary purpose of the injection is to block the Sympathetic Nerves, which can help reduce pain, swelling, color, and sweating changes in the lower extremity, leading to potential improvements in mobility. It is a valuable component in the treatment of conditions such as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), Sympathetic Maintained Pain, and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

Duration of the Injection

The actual injection itself takes only a few minutes, making it a quick and efficient procedure.

Components of the Injection

The injection consists of a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine or bupivacaine, providing immediate pain relief, along with the addition of cortisone for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Discomfort and Sedation

As with any injection, there may be some discomfort during the procedure as a needle is inserted through the skin and deeper tissues. However, the skin and deeper tissues can be numbed using a local anesthetic with a thin needle before the actual block needle is inserted. Most patients also receive intravenous sedation and analgesia, ensuring the procedure is well-tolerated. The level of sedation is tailored to each patient’s tolerance.

Administration of the Injection

The injection is typically performed with the patient lying on their stomach. Throughout the procedure, patients are closely monitored using a blood pressure cuff and a blood oxygen-monitoring device. The skin on the back is cleansed with an antiseptic solution before the injection is administered. Fluoroscopy, a type of X-ray, is utilized to guide the needle(s) into the proper position.

Post-Injection Expectations

Immediately after the injection, you may feel warmth in the lower extremity. Additionally, you may notice a significant reduction or complete absence of pain. It is important to be aware that temporary weakness and/or numbness in the leg may occur following the procedure.