What are the Facet Joints?

Facet joints are small joints present, one on each side of the vertebra, in the spinal column. They connect each vertebra with the vertebra above and below. These joints help us to bend forward and backward and to a limited extent to the side.

What are Facet Joint Blocks?

Facet joint blocks are injections of local anesthetic and Cortisone into the facet joints.

What are the Diagnostic Blocks of the Facet Joints?

Each facet joint is supplied by two small nerves. In diagnostic blocks for facet joints, local anesthetic is used to numb these tiny nerves to block the pain impulses going to the brain. In addition to this, a small amount of Cortisone may also be used which can help to reduce inflammation.

What is the benefit of these Diagnostic Blocks?

These diagnostic blocks help to find out whether the facet joints are the cause of the back pain.

How long does the procedure take?

Depending upon the number of nerves or joints being blocked, it may take thirty minutes (30) to an hour.

Where is the procedure performed?

The procedure is usually done in our outpatient surgery center or where fluoroscopy or x-ray facilities are available.

How is the procedure performed?

An IV is started and you will receive sedation through the IV before and during the procedure. A local anesthetic (like Xylocaine/Novocaine) is injected into the skin and tissues below, prior to the placement of the needle for the facet blocks The procedure is usually done under fluoroscopy (live x-ray guidance).

I am afraid of needles. Will I have a lot of pain?

Your physician will do everything possible to do the procedure with minimal pain. As explained above, you will be given sedation intravenously and numbing medication (local anesthetic) at the site of the needle placement.

Can I be sedated for the procedure?

Yes. You will be awake, but very comfortable and at peace during the procedure. On occasion we will need to interact with you.

What should I expect after the procedure?

This procedure is done for diagnostic purposes. If the source of your pain is from these joints, you should have pain relief for a period of two to four hours after the injection. Please note the time interval from the injection to the onset of your pain and inform your Pain Management Consultant physician. This will help in determining the next step of treatment.

What should I do after the procedure?

You should make arrangements for someone to drive you home. You should take it easy for that day and rest. The next day you should be able to resume your normal daily activities that you were doing prior to the procedure.

Can I go to work the next day?

If you are working prior to the procedure, you can go back to work the day after the procedure. If you are not working prior to the procedure, because of the pain and other problems, you should discuss this with your physician for further instructions.

How should I prepare for the procedure?

You should not eat or drink anything six (6) hours before the procedure. You should stop taking any blood thinners like aspirin, at least five days before the procedure. You can take all of your other medications with a sip of water.

DIABETES: If you are a diabetic, please discuss with your physician, regarding your medications.