What is a Lumbar Sympathetic Block?
A lumbar sympathetic block is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat various conditions related to the sympathetic nervous system in the lower back and legs. By injecting numbing and/or anti-inflammatory medication around the targeted sympathetic nerve branches, this procedure can help diagnose and manage a range of pain-related issues.
How is a Lumbar Sympathetic Block Performed?
To perform a lumbar sympathetic block:
- 1. The patient lies on their stomach or side and may be given a mild sedative to help them relax.
- 2. The physician numbs the skin and underlying tissue at the injection site using a local anesthetic.
- 3. Under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the physician carefully inserts a needle and guides it to the location of the target sympathetic nerves along the lumbar spine.
- 4. Contrast dye may be injected through the needle to confirm proper placement near the sympathetic nerve branches.
- 5. Once the positioning is verified, the physician injects the therapeutic medication, which can include a local anesthetic and/or anti-inflammatory corticosteroid.
What Supplies and Medications are Used for a Lumbar Sympathetic Block?
The key components for a lumbar sympathetic block include:
- – Local anesthetic (e.g. lidocaine) to numb the injection site
- – Fluoroscopic imaging equipment to guide needle placement
- – Contrast dye (optional) to visualize the target nerve location
- – Therapeutic medications, such as a local anesthetic and/or corticosteroid
The specific medications and doses are selected by the physician based on the patient’s condition and treatment goals.
What to Expect After a Lumbar Sympathetic Block?
After the procedure, the patient may experience numbness, weakness, or other temporary effects in the leg on the side of the injection. This is a normal and expected outcome, as the local anesthetic has temporarily blocked the sympathetic nerve signaling.
The full therapeutic benefits of the sympathetic block, such as pain relief or improved circulation, may take some time to become apparent, often requiring a series of injections. Patients should follow their physician’s instructions regarding any activity restrictions and schedule any necessary follow-up appointments. They should report any concerning symptoms, such as increased pain, to their healthcare provider.