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DownloadAn image guided injection is a procedure that injects medication into a joint, bursa (saclike cavity situated in places in tissues where friction would otherwise occur) or around a tendon. The injection is usually a mixture of a local anaesthetic and corticosteroid medication.(steroids are used to reduce inflammation, which in turn reduces pain. Pain relief can be long lasting or temporary. You should experience an improvement in your
symptoms within three to seven days. The procedure is performed using the guidance of imaging machines such as ultrasound, CT or x-ray.
Corticosteroids are a group of drugs used in the treatment of various parts of the body where inflammation is felt to be the cause of the pain. It is a strong anti-inflammatory and is used in musculoskeletal problems to reduce or eliminate pain.
Please tell the staff if you are or suspect you might be pregnant, prior to us commencing your
procedure.
Images may be obtained using ultrasound or x-ray. The radiologist (Doctor) may inject a local anaesthetic to the skin and superficial soft tissue.
Using imaging as a guide, the needle will be inserted into the relevant body part.
When the needle is in the correct place the medication will be injected. The needle is taken out and a dressing applied to the puncture site.
Imaging staff will discuss with you the level of activity that is suitable after your procedure. We advise you do not drive for at least 24 hours as your vehicle insurance might be invalidated if you were to have an accident.
If a steroid was injected it is normal to have some pain at the site for a day or two. Ice packs or simple ‘over the counter’ pain killers are usually enough to relieve this pain.
Your results will be sent to your consultant or GP within seven to ten working days.
If you would like to discuss your procedure or if you have vision, mobility or access issues please contact the Imaging Department on 01273 664575
The risks and complications with this procedure can include but are not limited to the following:
Common risks and complications include:
Less common risks and complications include:
Since cortisone injections are used for treating pain, it is an optional procedure. Other options should be discussed with your referring doctor/clinician and may include anti-inflammatories, physiotherapy and surgery.
If you would like to discuss your procedure or if you have vision, mobility or access issues please contact the Imaging Department on 01273 664575.
This information is intended for patients receiving care in Brighton & Hove or Haywards Heath.
The information here is for guidance purposes only and is in no way intended to replace professional clinical advice by a qualified practitioner.
Review Date: February 2023