d. Epidural Neuroplasty

Frequently asked questions about epidural neuroplasty are:

1. What is epidural neuroplasty, what is its purpose, how does it work?
2. What preparations are required before neuroplasty?
3. How is neuroplasty performed and how long does it take?
4. Is neuroplasty painful?
5. How many applications is required?
6. What kind of benefit will I get?
7. What are the risks and side effects?
8. Who cannot undergo neuroplasty?

Gabor Racz, Serdar Erdine,2022

2. 1. Epidural neuroplasty, also known as adhesiolysis, is a medical procedure developed by Hungarian-American scientist Gabor Racz. This procedure aims to relieve pain in the epidural space of the spine, which can become cluttered with adhesions following surgery. These adhesions can cause persistent pain by entrapping nerves within the epidural space. Neuroplasty involves the use of catheters to deliver medication such as hyaluronidase, saline, and corticosteroids directly to the affected area under imaging guidance, breaking up the adhesions and providing pain relief.
   2. Preparation for neuroplasty typically includes obtaining a detailed explanation of the procedure from your doctor, who will require written consent. Patients should inform their physician of all current medical conditions, medications, and allergies. Some supplements and medications may need to be discontinued due to their blood-thinning properties. Patients should bring any relevant medical records with them and wear comfortable clothing.
   3. The procedure usually takes about 15-20 minutes to perform in an operating room setting and involves careful placement of a catheter in the epidural space, guided by imaging techniques. Sedatives and pain relievers are administered intravenously to ensure the patient's comfort. Following the procedure, patients are monitored for a couple of hours before being discharged.
   4. Pain during the procedure is typically managed with sedatives and analgesics, making it not painful for the patient. The number of neuroplasty treatments required varies, but it can be performed a second time after two months if there was some benefit from the initial treatment.
   5. The benefits of epidural neuroplasty include temporary relief from pain caused by adhesions, which can last around two years. However, it is important to manage patients' expectations, as the procedure is not a cure-all and has a success rate of around 60-70%.
   6. Risks and side effects include the potential for puncturing the dura mater, which can lead to cerebrospinal fluid leakage, and, like any interventional procedure, there is a risk of infection.
   7. Epidural neuroplasty is contraindicated in patients with an active infection, bleeding disorders, those on anticoagulant therapy such as warfarin, and pregnant women.

 

 

Please consult a healthcare professional for the most accurate and personalized information regarding epidural neuroplasty or any medical procedure.