Epidural Neuroplasty
A non-surgical treatment that delivers medication to nerves affected by disc herniation or stenosis, treating pain and symptoms without surgery.
A special catheter under 1 mm wide is inserted through the opening between vertebrae. It separates adhesions between the spine and spinal canal and delivers medication that flushes out inflammatory substances, easing inflammation and freeing trapped nerves.
Recommended for
- Cervical or lumbar spinal stenosis and disc herniation
- Traumatic vertebral compression fractures
- Ongoing pain after spine surgery
- Neck or back pain not explained by MRI
Treats back and neck conditions without a skin incision, so it suits older patients and people with chronic illness.
Symptoms can recur later.
Questions patients ask
How is neuroplasty done?
Under local anesthesia, a guide needle is placed near the tailbone and contrast dye is injected. The catheter is then advanced to the target area, where it removes the source of pain, widens the nerve canal and delivers anti-adhesion and anti-inflammatory medication to calm swelling, release adhesions and relieve pain.
How is it different from a nerve block?
A nerve block injects anti-inflammatory medication such as steroids at several points with a syringe. Neuroplasty delivers a larger amount at once through a catheter. Neuroplasty is generally more effective, but a hospital stay may sometimes be needed.
How should I care for myself afterward?
A light shower is fine on the day, but avoid saunas, and avoid strenuous movement for 3 to 4 days. Temporary partial weakness can occur but usually resolves within 1 to 2 hours. Come with a companion on the day and do not drive.
AftercareRest in bed for at least 30 minutes afterward while we watch for drug reactions and motor weakness. If nothing unusual appears, you can go home.