A Medial Branch Block is an injection of local anesthetic near the medial branch nerves which supply sensory information from the facet joints in the spine.
Procedure Overview
- This procedure uses a local anesthetic injected directly onto the medial branch nerves.
- Fluoroscopic guidance is used to ensure the injection is accurate.
Key Benefits
- Provides immediate pain relief.
- Serves as a diagnostic tool for pinpointing the source of facet joint pain in the neck, mid-back, or lower spine.
- Can be a necessary step before a longer-lasting procedure like radiofrequency ablation or a sacroiliac joint fusion.
Potential Risks
- Risks can include infection, bleeding, allergic reactions, or nerve damage.
- A temporary increase in pain may occur.
Patient Experience and Goals
- Patients can typically return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure.
- The primary goal is to provide immediate pain relief, accurately diagnose the cause of facet joint pain, and improve the patient’s overall quality of life.