WHAT IS AN INJECTION PROCEDURE?

An Injection Procedure is a medical procedure used to treat areas of pain in your body. The type of injection is determined by your doctor, which is based upon your medical history and symptoms.

WHY SHOULD I HAVE AN INJECTION PROCEDURE?

The injection is used to decrease the pain and swelling in a joint (such as a hip) and/or can treat the causes of back pain by an injection to the spine. This procedure requires an order from your doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant.

ORDERS, SCHEDULING, AND INSURANCE - WHAT DO I DO BEFORE THE EXAM?

• An order is required for all Image Guided Injections
• You can call us directly to schedule your exam, or your Providers office may and schedule the exam for you
• Call your insurance prior to your exam to determine your frequency limitations and other coverage restrictions.
• Call your insurance prior to your exam to determine any prior authorization or notification requirements
• You can find more information on billing here: BILLING

EXAM PREPARATION - WHAT DO I DO BEFORE THE EXAM?

• Read over our “Preparing for Your Imaging Exam“ page
• Wear warm and comfortable clothes with no metal, for example: no zippers, buttons, or grommets.
• Avoid wearing jewelry or other metal accessories as they will need to be removed prior to your exam.
• There are no eating/drinking restrictions.
• Ask your Provider about any medications you are taking, and bring a copy your current medications list with you to your imaging exam.
• It is recommended that you do not take any of your regular pain medications the day of the procedure.
• If you are pregnant and/or breast feeding, or could possibly be pregnant, please let us know

We also suggest that someone be available to drive you home after the procedure as you may feel a little weak.

If you have any questions, please call our office at 309-743-0445

HOW LONG WILL THE PROCEDURE TAKE?

The procedure can be completed within 45 to 60 minutes.

WHAT WILL THE EXAM BE LIKE?

Joints - the steroid injection is given directly into the joint. It may take up to 7 days for your symptoms to improve.

Spine - the doctor (Radiologist) will see you before the procedure to answer any questions you have. Depending upon the type of injection, either a CT scan or an x-ray (fluoroscopy) will be used to guide the needle into your spine. Once the needle is inserted, a small amount of contrast (x-ray dye, iodine) will be injected to confirm the needle is in the correct place. Once we have confirmed that we have the correct location in the joint, we will inject the mixture of medications your doctor has ordered. You may feel a slight fullness or heaviness during the injection. We will watch you for a short time and then you will be allowed to leave.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

It is important to start a "pain log" to record any changes in your symptoms from your injection. Please make sure to take this with you to your next doctor's visit.

WHAT IF I HAVE FURTHER QUESTIONS?

If you have any further questions or concerns about this procedure, please contact our office at 309-743-0445 or call your doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.