In this procedure, images are used to accurately guide a needle into an injured or abnormal musculoskeletal (MSK) area. Mainly used for therapeutic reasons, this procedure provides patients with a highly effective pain relief option without the need for major surgery or a general anaesthetic.
The injection usually includes a corticosteroid and a numbing agent such as local anaesthetic.
There is no special preparation necessary.
On the day please ensure you:
When you arrive:
Ultrasound provides real-time images of internal body structures; such as bursae, joints, muscles, nerves, tendons, blood vessels and internal organs. This allows our radiologists to guide a needle with great accuracy into an injured or abnormal MSK area.
Fluoroscopy provides real-time images of bones by using a continuous x-ray beam which projects images onto a large screen, similar to a TV. This allows our radiologists to guide a needle with great accuracy into an injured or abnormal joint.
If the radiologist does your injection using fluoroscopy, contrast dye may be used to verify correct placement of the needle. This is not necessary if using ultrasound.
As with any medical procedure, there are some risks that you should be aware of:
A support person may accompany you to your appointment but typically cannot enter the scan room.