Cervical epidural steroid injection

Isabelle49 · Joined: 09 May 2009 Posts: 3 Location: Louisiana

I had a cervical epidural injection done 5/8/09 for pain that seemed to originate near C-7, T-1, across the left scapula and down the left arm. I've had this pain for 2-1/2+ months. I have a question for the Rad pros:

I noticed this morning that the bandage across the injection site seemed low and when my daughter visited it was removed. The puncture site is approximately mid-line and is 4.25 cm below C-7. I'm an RN, and don't know much about radiology, but am curious to hear your input. During the procedure I did feel a sense of pressure as the fluid was injected and the flow was to the right of my spine and moved in a downward path.

Would appreciate your input. Thanks.

Isabelle,R.N.

hjhogle · Posted: Sun May 10, 2009 10:14 am Post subject:

I'm sorry ... what's the question?

hjh, RT

Isabelle49 · Joined: 09 May 2009 Posts: 3 Location: Louisiana

The question was: Would a cervical epidural puncture site be 4.25 cm below C7, T1?

Thanks,

Isabelle,R.N.

hjhogle · Posted: Sun May 10, 2009 5:47 pm Post subject:

You're asking the wrong group.

Cervical injections are not radiology procedures, although they are occasionally performed with imaging guidance (CT, fluoroscopy).

We'd be happy to talk about the imaging. But proper site identification is not part of our repetoire. Radiographers are not taught or qualified to perform spinal punture.

I'd check with your physician first, if you get no satisfaction I'd ask another neurosurgeon or pain management specialist.

Did you not get relief from the procedure?

hjh. RT

Isabelle49 · Joined: 09 May 2009 Posts: 3 Location: Louisiana

Sorry, I just thought someone here would be familiar with the cervical, thoracic, lumbar anatomy.

Isabelle, R.N.

hjhogle · Posted: Mon May 11, 2009 10:17 am Post subject:

Unfortunately, having a good working knowledge of the anatomy of the spine doesn't necessarily relate to they "why's" of your specific procedure.

Good luck
hjh, RT