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Gulf Coast Pain Management
Pain and Procedure Info

 

SYMPATHETIC NERVE BLOCK

What is it?

A Sympathetic Nerve Block is performed to determine if there is damage to the sympathetic nerve chain and if it is in the source of pain. This is a diagnostic test primarily, but it may provide relief far in excess of the duration of the anesthetic.

 

How is it done?

The patient is given intravenous medication as a relaxant and sedative. A local skin anesthetic is give in the lumbar area of the back. A needle is the inserted into the back under fluoroscopy next to the vertebral body at the lumbar - 2 or lumbar - 3 level. The block may be performed on both sides of the spine at one or both of these levels. An anesthetic medication will be injected into the area or areas.

Expected Results:

The patient may note redness of the lower extremity and a feeling of warmth.


How long does it take?

It takes 30 minutes for the procedure followed by evaluation. Recovery from sedation takes a minimum of one hour.

Glossary

Sympathetic Nerves --
a network of nerves extending the length of the spine that control some of the involuntary functions of the body such as opening and narrowing of blood vessels.

Fluoroscopy --
X-ray imaging of a part of the body that is displayed on a screen or monitor in the x-ray suite. This facilitates and assures proper placement of the needle and medication.


Get real answers at Gulf Coast Pain Management.
If you have any questions whatsoever regarding this procedure,
please do not hesitate to ask Dr. Columbus.

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©2000 - 2008 Gulf Coast Pain Management
Dr. Lynne C. Columbus
3890 Tampa Road Suite 308
Morton Plant Mease East Lake Outpatient Center
Palm Harbor, Florida
34684

Phone: (727) 789-0891  Fax: (727) 789-1570
E-mail:
info@gulfcoastpain.com