Lumbar Sympathetic Block
A LSB is a minimally invasive procedure designed to alleviate chronic pain in the lower extremities caused by complex regional pain syndrome.
What Can Lumbar Sympathetic Block Treat?
LSB is primarily used to manage pain conditions that originate from the sympathetic nervous system. Common conditions treated with this procedure include:
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A chronic pain condition that usually affects one limb, often after an injury or trauma. **Link CRPS Conditions Treated**
How is a Lumbar Sympathetic Block Administered?
The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis and typically takes around 10 minutes. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what to expect during the LSB procedure:
Preparation: The patient lies face down on the examination table, and the skin over the lower back area is cleansed and sterilized.
Anesthesia: A local anesthetic is administered to numb the skin and surrounding tissues, ensuring minimal discomfort during the procedure.
Needle Placement: With the guidance of fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging), a thin needle is precisely inserted near the lumbar sympathetic ganglia.
Contrast Dye Injection: A contrast dye is injected to confirm the correct needle placement and to ensure that the medication reaches the target area effectively. Alternatives can be used if allergic.
Medication Injection: The injection only contains local anesthetic slowly injected to block the sympathetic nerves, reducing pain signals.
Recovery: After the procedure, patients are usually monitored for a short period before being discharged to go home.
What are the Risks?
Like any medical procedure, the Lumbar Sympathetic Block carries some risks, although they are generally minimal. Potential risks and complications may include:
Temporary Soreness: Some patients may experience mild soreness or bruising at the injection site, which usually subsides within a few days.
Allergic Reaction: Although rare, there is a small risk of allergic reactions to the medications used during the procedure.
Infection: The risk of infection is extremely low due to sterile techniques employed during the procedure.
Nerve Damage: While extremely uncommon, there is a small risk of nerve injury at the injection site.
If you or a loved one is suffering from chronic CRPS of the lower extremities, a Lumbar Sympathetic Block may be the solution you’ve been looking for. As a dedicated pain management specialist, Dr. Edward Rubin is here to help you find relief and improve your quality of life. Don’t let pain hold you back; take the first step towards a pain-free future by scheduling an appointment at our clinic today.