What is a Medial Branch Block?

A Medial Branch Block is an injection of local anesthetic near the medial branch nerves, which connect to the facet joints in the spine.

The procedure involves:

• An injection of local anesthetic.
• The anesthetic is placed near the medial branch nerves.
• These nerves connect to the facet joints in the spine.
• Anesthetic medication is injected onto the medial branch nerves.
• Fluoroscopic guidance is typically used to ensure accuracy during the injection.
  
  

Conditions it addresses:

• Facet joint pain.
• Pain can be located in the neck.
• Pain can be located in the mid-back.
• Pain can be located in the lower portion of the spine.
  
  

Potential advantages:

• Immediate pain relief may be experienced.
• It has diagnostic value in identifying the source of pain.
• It can serve as a preliminary step before radiofrequency ablation, a longer-lasting treatment.
  
  

Possible risks:

• Infection at the injection site.
• Bleeding may occur.
• Allergic reactions to the injected substances are possible.
• Nerve damage, although rare, is a potential risk.
• A temporary increase in pain following the procedure can happen.
  
  

Post-procedure expectations:

• Patients usually can return to their normal activities right away.
  
  

Overall objectives:

• To achieve immediate pain relief for the patient.
• To accurately determine if facet joints are the cause of the pain.
• To enhance the patient’s overall quality of life.