Return to flip book view

Notes EPIDURAL INJECTION PATIENT INFORMATION Beacon Hospital Sandyford Dublin 18 D18 AK68 Tel 01 293 6600 www beaconhospital ie THIS IS MODERN MEDICINE

EPIDURAL INJECTION PATIENT INFORMATION You may experience some numbness or weakness in your limbs for a few hours This normal and usually mild There is a 1 in 200 risk of a spinal headache after this procedure If you develop a severe headache following your procedure it is important to stay hydrated and rest If you have a headache for more than 24 hours you should contact your Pain Consultant What is an Epidural Injection An epidural injection is a method of introducing local anaesthetic and or steroids into the area surrounding your spine This can result in pain relief and reduction of inflammation surrounding a disc or nerve root An epidural injection may be What Will Happen After the Procedure given anywhere along the length of the spine What Should I Do Before the Procedure You need to fast no food or drink for 6 hours before the procedure Essential medications may be taken with a sip of water If you are diabetic please ask your doctor about fasting for a procedure You may need specific advice regarding your medications If you are on any anticoagulants blood thinners such as aspirin warfarin or Xarelto speak to your doctor as these may need to be stopped for a few days What Will Happen When I Come to Hospital An epidural injection is usually carried out as a day case procedure You will be admitted to the Day Unit and discharged on the same day The nurse doctor will ask you for details of your medical history You should also bring a list of your medications The procedure is carried out in the Theatre department You will be given a hospital gown and some socks to wear An IV cannula will be placed in your hand or arm prior to the procedure and you may receive some sedation in theatre through this before the procedure starts An Anaesthetist will monitor you at all times during the procedure if you receive sedation The doctor will inject some local anaesthetic at your back which makes your skin numb The doctor will then perform the epidural injection You may feel some pressure or pushing at the injection site Are There Any Side Effects As with any procedure there is a small risk of side effects Your doctor will explain any specific risks associated with your procedure and ask you to sign a consent form If you do not understand anything explained to you please feel free to ask for further information The injection may cause a small amount of bruising or bleeding in the area which settles in a few days Some patients notice relief of pain within an hour of the procedure For other patients it may take up to 48 hours before you notice any effect In the meantime you should stay on your usual painkillers It is important to rest following the procedure You can return to your normal routine after 48 hours You must be collected by a responsible adult following the procedure You should not drive for at least 24 hours following the procedure If required you will be reviewed in your Consultant s clinic 2 4 weeks after your procedure