Epidural Injection in Perth

Dr. Mark Hamlin, an experienced interventional radiologist based in Perth, Australia, specializes in administering epidural injections to provide effective pain relief for patients suffering from various spinal conditions. This minimally invasive procedure involves the precise delivery of a corticosteroid medication into the epidural space surrounding the spinal cord, targeting inflammation and alleviating discomfort caused by conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or chronic back pain. Dr. Hamlin employs advanced imaging techniques to ensure accuracy and safety during the injection, allowing for quick recovery and minimal downtime. His compassionate approach prioritizes patient comfort, making the epidural injection an excellent option for those seeking relief from persistent pain.

What is an Epidural Steroid Injection?

The Epidural Steroid Injection (ESI) is a procedure where anaesthetic and anti-inflammotory medicine (cortisone) is injected into the epidural space to treat pain caused by irritation of the spinal nerves. A protective covering called the dural sac surrounds the spinal cord. It contains spinal fluid that bathes and nourishes the spinal cord. The space between the dural sac and the bones of the spinal column is known as the epidural space. Nerves that extend from the spinal cord through the spinal column and to the body pass through the epidural space.

Before the procedure

You will require a driver to bring you to the clinic and drive you home. If you are diabetic, please discuss your medication schedule with your doctor (GP). Remind your doctor of all the prescription or over-the-counter medications and supplements you currently take. You may need to stop taking certain medications several days before the procedure (e.g. Warfarin, Aspirin or Plavix). It is very important to tell your doctor if you have an allergic reaction to injected contrast before (CT angiogram etc.)

During the procedure

The ESI is performed in our CT room by one of our interventional radiologists. Your skin will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution, and then your radiologist will inject some local anaesthetic to cause skin numbness before the ESI. After the local anaesthetic takes effect the radiologist will insert another needle - using the aid of the CT scanner to confirm that the needle is in correct position. A mixture of long acting anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory medicine (cortisone) will then be injected. The procedure normally takes 10-15 minutes.

After the procedure

You may experience some weakness and/or numbness in your legs for a few hours after the procedure. If so, please remain at the clinic until advised by the radiologist. Do not engage in any activities that require lifting, balance and coordination. Please also arrange someone to drive you home and do not drive for the remainder of the day. It is likely and in most cases, you will be able to resume normal activities and return to work after 48 hours. If your doctor prescribes physical therapy it is very important that you adhere to this after 7 days. Although you may feel much better immediately after the medicine (due to the numbing medicine), there is a possibility your pain may return within a few hours. It may take up to 2-3 weeks for the cortisone medication to start working.