A joint injection involves the injection of local anaesthetic and steroid directly into the joint space.
Ultrasound or Fluoroscopic Imaging may be required for accurate needle placement, on some occasions a combination of imaging may be required. A specialist known as an Interventional Radiologist often performs these procedures.
Download PDFYour Doctor has asked for this test to be performed because you may experience some or all of the following;
You will need to present to the Day Procedure Unit on the day of your procedure – your admission time will be sent to you with your appointment time. This will allow the nurses time to complete your admission paperwork and any other tests that may be required such as blood tests or pre-medication.
You will be required to fast for 4 hours before you procedure – this means no food or fluids. You may take any regular medication with a small sip of water. Please continue to take your blood pressure medication. Please bring a list of your medications with you.
Please contact MIVIR if you are taking medication for the following;
You will be required to change into a hospital gown; you may leave your underwear on.
You will be taken into the procedure room and positioned on the table. Monitoring equipment will be attached so the nurses can monitor your blood pressure and heart rate throughout the procedure. The area to be injected will be cleaned with a cold antiseptic solution and a sterile drape placed over the site. Local anaesthetic will be injected into the skin, which will sting for 15-20 seconds. You should only feel pushing and pressure after this.
A small waterproof dressing will be applied to the injection site; you may remove the dressing in 12 hours. The joint may feel tight and you may have some discomfort, this will resolve over the next 12-24 hours. During your time in the recovery room the nurses will monitor your blood pressure and heart rate and regularly check the puncture site for any signs of bleeding. You will be given something to eat and drink as soon as you are able to sit up. If you are staying overnight in the hospital, you will be taken to the ward after a short period in recovery.
If you are being discharged home, your recovery period is approximately 1 hour. You must have someone to collect you and stay with you overnight. You will be given a letter from the nurses with some discharge instructions and any other relevant information related to your procedure. You may be required make a follow-up appointment with Dr Vrazas. This can be made at your convenience by phoning MIVIR on 9411 7165.
We recommend the following;
Sacroiliac Joint Steroid Injection Video – Spine Health
Author: Dr John Vrazas
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