Is epidural steroid injection done with C-arm fluoroscopy?

A C-arm is a mobile X-ray system that produces images during a procedure. The clinician can use these images to identify the level and direction of the injection, rather than relying only on surface landmarks. A small amount of contrast material may be used to check the path of the medication before the injection is completed. The exact imaging method depends on your symptoms, spinal region, medical history and the clinician’s practice.

Fluoroscopy does not treat the source of pain by itself. It is a guidance tool used as part of an epidural steroid injection, which places medication near irritated spinal nerves or tissues.

Tell the treating team about pregnancy or possible pregnancy, allergies, diabetes, blood-thinning medicines, infection, and previous reactions to injections or contrast material. Follow the clinic’s instructions about eating, drinking and medicines. Arrange help if sedation is planned.

After the injection, follow the activity advice you receive and observe the injection site. Temporary soreness or a short-lived change in sensation can occur. Keep a record of your pain and movement so the clinician can judge whether the treatment helped.

Contact the clinic promptly for worsening redness, swelling, drainage, fever, or pain that is becoming harder to control. Seek urgent medical help for new leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, severe headache that is worse when upright, breathing difficulty, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Ask which spinal level is being targeted, whether C-arm fluoroscopy is planned, whether contrast or sedation will be used, and how your medicines should be managed. Also ask what activity is suitable afterward and which symptoms should trigger an urgent call.