What is a facet joint medial branch block?

A facet joint medial branch block involves injecting local anaesthetics into or around a facet joint to see if this relieves your back pain. Sometimes steroids are also used to reduce inflammation and to make the pain relief last longer.

What are the benefits of a facet joint medial branch block?

A facet joint medial branch block can be used to find out if your pain is caused by your facet joints.

Are there any alternatives to the injection?

An x-ray or scan can show if you have osteoarthritis in one or more of your facet joints.

If you decide not to have an injection, your doctor may be able to suggest other methods of pain relief. You may need more painkillers that are more likely to make you feel sick or drowsy.

What does the procedure involve?

A facet joint medial branch block usually takes less than 30 minutes. Your doctor may use an x-ray to guide them while they give the injection.

Your doctor will carefully insert the needle for the injection. They may inject dye (colourless contrast fluid) and take an x-ray to help them to check that the needle is in the right position. Sometimes your doctor will use an ultrasound scanner to help guide them while they insert the needle.

What complications can happen?

The healthcare team will try to reduce the risk of complications.

Any numbers which relate to risk are from studies of people who have had a facet joint medial branch block. Your doctor may be able to tell you if the risk of a complication is higher or lower for you.

Some complications can be serious and may even cause death.

• Failure of the injection to relieve your pain.
• Worsening pain.
• Backache. It is common to have a bruised feeling for a few days.
• Allergic reaction to local anaesthetics.
• Allergic reaction to the equipment, materials or medication.
• Seizures caused by the local anaesthetics.
• Infection around your spine.
• Short-term nerve injury, which recovers fully.
• Visual disturbance or loss of vision.
• Long-term nerve injury.
• Blood clot around your spine.

How soon will I recover?

After a short while you should be able to go home.

Rest if you feel tired.

You should be able to return to normal activities the next day.

Summary

A facet joint medial branch block can be used to find out if your pain is caused by your facet joints, or to treat pain in your facet joints.

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