Periganglionic foraminal steroid injections performed under CT control

AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 1998 Feb;19(2):349-52.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of direct intraforaminal steroid injections into the periganglionic space in the treatment of radicular pain.

Methods: Periganglionic infiltrations were performed in 41 patients with acute or chronic radicular pain. Neuroradiologic imaging in all patients showed foraminal stenosis due to degenerative disorders or herniated disk. All injections were performed under CT control.

Results: Seventy percent of patients had significant pain reduction, with the greatest success (90% of patients) in those whose foraminal stenosis was due to degenerative disorders; 45% of patients with foraminal herniated disks had pain relief.

Conclusion: Intraforaminal steroid injection is useful in the treatment of radicular pain, particularly in cases of foraminal degenerative stenosis.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Female
  • Ganglia, Spinal / diagnostic imaging
  • Ganglia, Spinal / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • Hydrocortisone / administration & dosage*
  • Injections, Spinal
  • Lidocaine / administration & dosage*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pain Measurement
  • Radiculopathy / drug therapy*
  • Radiculopathy / etiology
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Lidocaine
  • Hydrocortisone