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Intra-articular Facet Injections
Intra-articular Facet Injections are fluoroscopically
directed injections of local anesthetic and depot steroid into the
facet joints suspected to be a source of spinal pain. In the lower
back, this type of pain is most
frequently related to degenerative disc disease which places increased
stress on the facet joints. In the neck, it is the most common cause
of pain following a whiplash type of injury. Pain secondary to the
facets may also be a consequence of synovial tears, cysts, hematomas,
subluxations, spinal instability, spondylolisthesis, and vertebral
compression fractures. The purpose of the injection is two-fold.
The relief of pain by the local anesthetic is important diagnostic
information for the pain physician, allowing them to define and
more effectively treat spinal pain. The steroid can provide long
term relief of symptoms in many cases of pain related to disorders
of the facet joint. Further treatment is guided by the response
of the patient to both the local anesthetic and the steroid. - view
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