Transforaminal nerve root injection

Transforaminal nerve root injfection is performed for radicular pain treatment and diagnosis.

See spinal interventional procedures for complications and equipment.

• cervical spine
• thoracic spine
• lumbar spine

The desired needle tip position is just lateral to the pedicle immediately below the transverse process, angled in at 30-40º from vertical. The needle tip (when performed fluoroscopically) should not project beyond the midpoint of the pedicle.

Suitable contrast is injected to confirm that the needle has not breached the dura. The nerve root can be seen outlined by contrast. Steroid and anesthetic can then be injected, and will wash the contrast away.