Infiltration / blockade of facet joints or the SI joint

Infiltration / blockade of the facet joints (small vertebral joints) or the SIJ (sacroiliac joint) is a treatment method for pain caused by bony wear and tear.

Periradicular therapy

Periradicular therapy (PRT) is a treatment method for pain that radiates along a nerve root (radicular pain). A distinction is made between "therapeutic PRT" and "diagnostic PRT".
The aim of therapeutic PRT is to relieve pain that occurs as a result of compression or irritation of a nerve root.
In diagnostic PRT, the aim is to localise the level at which surgical relief is most likely to relieve the pain if the symptoms are unclear, for example in the case of herniated discs at several levels.

General procedure and duration

The duration of CT-assisted pain therapy can vary from person to person. The patient should be able to lie quietly on their stomach for approx. 15 minutes.
After imaging the affected body region, a thin needle is placed precisely at the affected joint / nerve root and a local anaesthetic is administered, possibly in combination with an anti-inflammatory agent. It may be necessary to repeat the procedure after several weeks.
The total duration of the procedure, including preparation, is approx. 15-20 minutes. Afterwards, patients remain in the radiology department for approximately 30 minutes for monitoring. During this time, the doctor will be available at all times in case of any problems.

Preparation

Patients are informed by a doctor before each CT-assisted pain therapy. During this consultation, the procedure and possible complications are explained and questions are answered. Possible allergies (e.g. medication, plasters) and medication (e.g. blood thinners) are important.

Laboratory values

Current coagulation values (Quick/INR, PTT and thrombocytes) should be determined before CT-supported pain therapy (max. 2 weeks old).