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Medial Branch Block
MEDIAL BRANCH BLOCK
The Basics:
A diagnostic test that determines or confirms whether the facet joint is the source of your pain
The results help your physician plan for a long-term treatment approach
The medial branch nerves provide the sensation to the facet joints. A medial branch block is used in patients who obtain good, but only temporary relief from facet joint injection.
The procedure is done by temporarily interrupting the pain signal carried by these nerves. If you experience pain relief after this procedure, you may be a candidate for a radiofrequency neurotomy, which is a long-term solution to this kind of discomfort.
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A medial branch block is a diagnostic injection of local anesthetic near the small medial branch nerves that supply the facet joints, used to determine whether these joints are the source of your back or neck pain.
It is primarily diagnostic: if the injection temporarily relieves your pain, it suggests the facet joints are involved and that radiofrequency neurotomy may help longer term.
The skin is numbed first and the injection is done with image guidance, so most patients feel only mild pressure, with short-lived soreness afterward.
The procedure typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis.
You'll monitor your pain over the next several hours, since the degree of relief guides the next treatment step. Arrange a driver if sedation is used.