Medial Branch Block

The medial branch nerve transmits pain from an arthritic facet joint. Therefore, blocking this nerve with local anesthetic will temporarily relieve facet joint pain. This procedure is utilized as a diagnostic tool to determine whether facet radiofrequency neurolysis will be useful to relieve back pain.

Using fluoroscopic guidance, the anatomic landmarks of the medial branch nerve are located. A very fine needle is placed through the skin and directed to the proper location. A small amount of contrast dye is injected first to verify proper needle location. Then a small amount of local anesthetic is injected to block the nerve.

The patient will report whether or not the back pain is relieved. If back pain is relieved, then it is determined that the pain is originating from the corresponding facet joint. If the pain is not relieved, the facet joint can be ruled out and another source of pain will be investigated.

The procedure takes ten to fifteen minutes plus recovery time.