Download a PDF of Office based Pre-Procedure Instructions
Preparing for the procedure
- The entire visit should take 30 minutes to 1 hour from check in to discharge. It is always possible that we will run over this time because we prioritize safety over speed.
- We strongly suggest arranging for a driver to accompany you for the procedure. This is not an obligation. However, there are rare occasions that you may feel weak or dizzy after the injection. We can only discharge you under safe conditions. If you do drive yourself, you must identify a way to find transport home in case there is a problem.
- Wear light comfortable clothing. Please do not wear heavy jewelry, belts and large garments. It is possible for cleaning solution, medications and even a small amount of blood to contact your clothes.
- Please do not fast on the day of the procedure. In addition, DO NOT eat a heavy meal. We suggest a light snack 2 hours before the procedure and drink water.
- Alert medical staff if you have a recent illness, take antibiotics or have any changes in health since the last clinic evaluation.
MEDICATION INSTRUCTIONS
- Please review the handout titled, “Medications to Stop Before the Procedure” If you have any questions, please ask the physician or staff prior to the procedure.
- If you take Aspirin, Coumadin, Plavix, or other blood thinners for a medical condition, please let your physician know ASAP.
- We advise you to take your blood pressure, heart, diabetes, and prescribed pain medications the day of the procedure.
What to expect during the procedure
- We will walk you from the clinic room into the procedure suite. We will have you positioned on the table and then your skin will be cleaned with a sterile solution.
- Numbing medicine (lidocaine) will be used to anesthetize the skin with a small needle. You will be awake. Next, the doctor will perform the injection with Xray (fluoroscopic) guidance.
- After the procedure, you will walk back to the room for post-procedure instructions.
- Please fill out the pain diary and bring it to the post-injection follow up appointment.